ABSTRACT
Background: Infestation of the gastrointestinal tract with parasites is one of the commonest causes of the digestive tract syndromes especially in developing countries. The aim of the present study was to determine the incidence of parasitic infestation in the stool specimens in pediatric age group
Methods: Stool specimens of all the children referred to Children's Medical Center in Tehran, regardless of their clinical complaint, in the last 13 years, are examined microscopically
Findings: 14.27% of 64196 specimens were positive regarding parasites, isolated Giardia being 7.54%. Positive stool specimens of boys related to girls were more frequent
Conclusion: The incidence of infestation with Giardia is remarkable and regarding the possible complications of infestation, more intensive hygienic teaching of the public is recommended to prevent the expansion of the infestation