Falling-Leaf Motility of Giardia lamblia

This “Images in Clinical Medicine” case highlights a 24-year-old kidney transplant recipient presenting with acute giardiasis. Stool examination revealed cysts and motile pear-shaped trophozoites of Giardia lamblia, displaying the characteristic “falling leaf” motion powered by four pairs of flagella. Diagnosis was confirmed via trichrome staining and a rapid immunochromatographic assay. Other pathogens tested negative. The infection common in contaminated food or water and more severe in immunosuppressed individuals was successfully treated with a 5-day course of metronidazole. The case underscores the importance of early identification and targeted treatment in vulnerable populations

This “Images in Clinical Medicine” case highlights a 24-year-old kidney transplant recipient presenting with acute giardiasis. Stool examination revealed cysts and motile pear-shaped trophozoites of Giardia lamblia, displaying the characteristic “falling leaf” motion powered by four pairs of flagella. Diagnosis was confirmed via trichrome staining and a rapid immunochromatographic assay. Other pathogens tested negative. The infection common in contaminated food or water and more severe in immunosuppressed individuals was successfully treated with a 5-day course of metronidazole. The case underscores the importance of early identification and targeted treatment in vulnerable populations