Toxicity screening for Giardia duodenalis (Giardia lamblia) in stool
This test checks for the presence of the parasite *Giardia duodenalis*, which can cause intestinal infections like diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea. It helps diagnose giardiasis, a common but often mild infection spread through contaminated food, water, or person-to-person contact.
["This test helps identify if you have a giardia infection that may need treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33321-1
- Short code
- T gondii IgM Fld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- T gondii IgM Fld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Giardia is a microscopic parasite that can live in your intestines. If you’ve had symptoms like persistent diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain—especially after traveling to areas with poor sanitation—this test can confirm if the parasite is the cause. Early detection helps prevent complications and guides treatment decisions.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your stool is collected and examined under a microscope or tested using a specialized immunoassay. The test looks for parasite DNA or specific proteins that giardia releases, even if you’re not yet showing symptoms.
Sample Collection
You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample (usually collected in a special container) on the day of testing. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for timing and collection to ensure accuracy.
What to Expect
The test is quick and painless. Your sample is sent to a lab, where results are typically ready within 24–48 hours. If positive, you may need further testing or treatment to clear the infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Giardia stool test
Frequently asked questions
Giardiasis is often asymptomatic but can cause chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, or dehydration—especially in children, immune-compromised individuals, or travelers. Early identification allows for prompt treatment with antiparasitic medications to prevent long-term digestive issues or weakened immunity.
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before giving a stool sample?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy