REPORTING: Organism Identification

What happens if there are several different names used in the literature (Giardia lamblia, G. intestinalis, G. duodenalis)?

It is appropriate to use the most commonly accepted name (Giardia lamblia); you can also let the proficiency testing organism lists be your guide. When a replacement name begins to appear on the proficiency test list, then it's appropriate to notify your clients and institute the name change. Remember, it is very important to notify all clients prior to making any name changes.