Clostridioides difficile (bacteria)
Clostridioides difficile[edit | edit source]
Clostridioides difficile, formerly known as Clostridium difficile, is a gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium that is a leading cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis. It thrives in the human intestinal tract and can cause severe infections, especially after the normal gut flora is disrupted by antibiotic use.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Clostridioides difficile is known for its ability to form spores that are resistant to harsh environmental conditions, facilitating its transmission and making it a significant concern in healthcare settings. The bacterium produces toxins that can damage the lining of the intestine, leading to its most common manifestations: diarrhea and colitis.
Causes of Infection[edit | edit source]
Infection with Clostridioides difficile often occurs after the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which disrupt the normal balance of gut flora. Other risk factors include:
- Prolonged hospital stays
- A weakened immune system
- Previous infections with C. difficile
- Advanced age
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) can range from mild diarrhea to severe conditions such as pseudomembranous colitis, toxic megacolon, and sepsis. Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Fever
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for CDI typically involves:
- Discontinuing the antibiotic that triggered the infection
- Starting a course of antibiotics specifically targeted at C. difficile, such as vancomycin or fidaxomicin
- In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures against Clostridioides difficile infection include:
- Judicious use of antibiotics
- Strict adherence to infection control practices in healthcare settings, such as hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment
- Environmental cleaning and disinfection
- Probiotics, although their effectiveness is still under investigation
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Clostridioides difficile is recognized as a major cause of healthcare-associated infections worldwide, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Efforts to monitor and control the spread of C. difficile are crucial in hospital settings and long-term care facilities.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- Placeholder for references. Use the format: [1]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- [Placeholder for link to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page on Clostridioides difficile]
- [Placeholder for link to a research article on Clostridioides difficile infection treatment and prevention]
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