Clostridioides difficile infection

Clostridioides difficile infection

File:Clostridioides difficile SEM.jpg

Scanning electron micrograph of Clostridioides difficile

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a symptomatic infection due to the spore-forming bacterium, Clostridioides difficile. Symptoms can range from diarrhea to serious and potentially fatal inflammation of the colon.

Epidemiology

In the United States, C. difficile is the leading cause of infectious diarrhea in hospitals (nosocomial diarrhea). Elderly people may acquire C. difficile in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities, where a higher prevalence of the bacteria exists.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of C. difficile infection include:

• Watery diarrhea, which may be bloody
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain/tenderness

Causes

C. difficile bacteria are passed in feces and spread to food, surfaces, and objects when people who are infected don't wash their hands thoroughly. The bacteria produce spores that can resist harsh environmental conditions and can be found on bed linens, bed rails, bathroom fixtures, and medical equipment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of C. difficile infection is made by testing a sample of stool for toxins produced by the bacteria. Other tests, such as imaging tests and colonoscopy, may be used to rule out other causes of symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for C. difficile infection typically involves stopping the antibiotics that caused the infection, if possible. In mild cases, this may be enough to resolve the infection. In more severe cases, specific antibiotics are used to kill the C. difficile bacteria.

Prevention

Prevention strategies include careful antibiotic use, good hand hygiene, and thorough cleaning of the healthcare environment.

See Also

• Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Infection control
• Hand hygiene