Ibrahim F. Ataya1, Ahmed A. Sharrad2, Khayrat R. Lahmud3
1,2,3Department of Radiology and Ultrasound Technologies, College of Health & Medical Technology,
Sawa University, Almuthana, Iraq

Abstract

Giardiasisa common diarrheal illness that has major health consequences worldwide, particularly in developing nations, is caused by the flagellated intestinal protozoan Giardia lamblia. The primary diagnostic technique is still conventional microscopy, although it frequently has low sensitivity and operator dependence. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) relative to light microscopy for detecting G. lamblia in diarrheic patients in Al-Muthanna Province, Iraq, and to analyse the distribution of infection concerning demographic and environmental factors. During a six-months period, 100 stool samples were collected from patients with diarrhoea receiving treatment at Al-Rumaitha General Hospital and the Maternity and Childrens Hospital. Samples underwent microscopic examination, subsequently followed by reexamination using PCR to target the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of G. lamblia. Microscopic analysis revealed intestinal parasites in 34.4% of samples, with G. lamblia as the predominant species at 53.8%. PCR analysis detected G.
lamblia DNA in 96% of samples, demonstrating enhanced sensitivity. Men (54.2%) exhibited a higher propensity for infections, with children under age of ten being the most susceptible. Sequencing analysis revealed minimal genetic variation (0.01-0.002%) among isolates, which are stored in GenBank (OL719308). In conclusion, PCR is a dependable and highly sensitive technique for diagnosing giardiasis that can supplant microscopy. The elevated infection rates among rural children underscore the necessity of improving sanitation, hygiene education, and access to potable water in Al-Muthanna Province.

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