A07.1/A09.0/A09.9/ K52.2/K52.8/K52.9
DESCRIPTION
Diarrhoea lasting > 2 weeks.
The majority of cases may be HIV related. Encourage HIV testing.
Send a stool sample for microscopy for ova, cysts and parasites.
Note: Do not request culture and sensitivity of the stool sample. Giardiasis is a common cause of chronic diarrhoea in adults, and may be difficult to diagnose on stools. Therefore, empiric treatment for giardiasis is recommended before referring such patients.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Giardiasis
- Metronidazole, oral, 2 g daily for 3 days.
- Avoid alcohol.
Chronic diarrhoea in HIV/AIDS
See: Diarrhoea, HIV-associated.
REFERRAL
All HIV negative cases with no pathogen identified and significant diarrhoea.