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Clostridium difficile infection in a geriatric ward.
I Monsieur1, T Mets, S Lauwers
1Division of Geriatrics, Academic Hospital, Free University of Brussels (V.U.B.), Brussels, Belgium.
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|November 1, 1991
Summary
This study investigated Clostridium difficile in elderly patients, finding it present on admission in some and acquired during hospitalization. Environmental transmission is suggested by the clustering of different C. difficile types.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Hospitalized elderly patients are susceptible to infections.
- Clostridium difficile is a significant cause of healthcare-associated infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and acquisition of Clostridium difficile in hospitalized elderly patients.
- To investigate potential sources of C. difficile transmission within the hospital environment.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, longitudinal study design.
- Stool sample analysis for Clostridium difficile in 100 elderly patients.
- Typing of isolated C. difficile strains.
Main Results:
- Clostridium difficile detected on admission in 6% of patients, with 3% being asymptomatic carriers.
- 10% of patients acquired C. difficile during their hospital stay.
- Four distinct C. difficile types were identified, with temporal clustering suggesting environmental acquisition.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium difficile colonization and infection are concerns in hospitalized elderly populations.
- The study indicates a likely environmental route for C. difficile transmission within the hospital.
- Further research into environmental C. difficile control measures is warranted.