HIV and Lambda Lymphoma: Clinics, Therapy, and Prevention Strategies

In the world where HIV/AIDS continues to pose a significant health challenge, another parasitic disease, giardiasis, has emerged as a potential threat to HIV-positive individuals. Giardiasis, caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia or G. intestinalis, can lead to severe and prolonged symptoms in HIV-infected individuals, primarily due to their weakened immune system.

The immunosuppression resulting from HIV/AIDS impairs the body's defense mechanisms against Giardia lamblia, allowing the parasite to persist and proliferate, causing more severe intestinal damage and symptoms. This immunodeficiency leads to complications such as chronic diarrhea, malabsorption syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, and failure to thrive, especially in children.

The infection is spread through the fecal-oral route, commonly via contaminated water, unwashed products, or dirty hands. In HIV-positive patients, giardiasis can exacerbate HIV infection and accelerate the development of complications.

Giardiasis is not just "unpleasant diarrhea," but a potentially serious condition. The Center for Prevention of HIV Infection in the Health Department of Akmola Region is involved in the treatment and prevention of giardiasis in HIV-positive patients.

Diagnosis of giardiasis involves microscopic examination of stool for cysts and trophozoites, immunoassay for antigens, PCR diagnosis, and biopsy of the small intestine mucous membrane if necessary. Several stool samples may be required for reliable analysis on different days.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a very important component of giardiasis treatment in HIV-positive patients. Treatment of giardiasis requires a comprehensive approach, including antiparasitic therapy adapted to the immune status, fluid and electrolyte replacement, restoring intestinal flora, and symptomatic treatment if necessary.

Prevention of giardiasis in HIV-infected patients includes using safe drinking water, washing vegetables and fruits, practicing personal hygiene, avoiding swimming in questionable water bodies, checking and sanitizing water supplies, and regular medical examinations for parasitic and intestinal infections.

Early detection, adapted treatment, and strict adherence to preventive measures help minimize risks and maintain the quality of life of the patient at an appropriate level. The infectious disease specialist who provided this information is Shayahmetova G.T. It is crucial for HIV-positive individuals to be aware of the risks associated with giardiasis and to take the necessary precautions to protect their health.