Table of Contents
Giardia Life Cycle
Giardia is a flagellated protozoan that causes the diarrheal disease giardiasis. The life cycle of Giardia is complex and includes two hosts, a water-borne stage and a mammalian host.
The water-borne stage of the Giardia life cycle is the form that is found in water sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams. This stage is a cyst that can survive for long periods of time in cold water. When a person drinks water that contains Giardia cysts, the cysts hatch and the protozoan begins to reproduce in the person’s small intestine.
The mammalian host of Giardia is the final stage of the life cycle. The protozoan reproduces in the small intestine and then spreads to other parts of the body, such as the liver and lungs. Giardia can cause serious health problems in people with compromised immune systems.
Trophozoite
A trophozoite is an active, motile form of a protozoan, typically a single-celled organism. The word is derived from the Greek words “troph,” meaning “nourishment,” and “zoa,” meaning “animal.” Trophozoites are responsible for the feeding and reproduction of the protozoan.
Cystitis
Cystitis is a condition caused by an infection of the bladder. Symptoms include pain and burning when urinating, a frequent need to urinate, and blood in the urine. Cystitis is most commonly caused by a bacteria called E. coli, which is normally found in the gut. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and drinking plenty of fluids.
Cystitis is a condition caused by an infection of the bladder. Symptoms include pain and burning when urinating, a frequent need to urinate, and blood in the urine. Cystitis is most commonly caused by a bacteria called E. coli, which is normally found in the gut. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and drinking plenty of fluids.
