Clostridioides Difficile

Course overview

Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection (CDI), previously known as clostridium difficile, is a gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobic bacterium endogenously present in some individuals' gastrointestinal tract. Transmission occurs via the fecal-oral route, with clinical manifestations of CDI ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening pseudomembranous colitis. C. difficile forms resilient spores and can withstand extreme conditions such as high temperatures, common disinfectants, and acidic pH levels. Resistance to multiple antibiotics is becoming more prevalent, resulting in this pathogen being classified as an urgent threat to global health. In the United States alone, the most frequent causes of hospital admissions are related to toxic megacolon or TM, including inflammatory bowel disease, septicemia, and intestinal infections. The recurrence rate of CDI is a major concern, as many people develop recurrent infections after initial treatment. The diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of CDI in various patient populations are discussed.