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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
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Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
Clostridium difficile colitis in solid organ transplantation--a single-center experience.
I Stelzmueller1, H Goegele, M Biebl
1Department of General, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|April 5, 2007
Summary
Clostridium difficile (CD) infection is a serious complication after solid organ transplantation (SOT). The incidence of CD colitis has significantly increased, with toxic megacolon being a life-threatening concern in SOT recipients.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile (CD) infection is a frequent cause of diarrhea in solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients.
- A retrospective analysis of 2474 SOT procedures identified 43 cases of CD-associated diarrhea between 1996 and 2005.
Observation:
- CD infection onset varied widely, from 5 to 2453 days post-transplant, with all patients experiencing abdominal pain and watery diarrhea.
- Toxins A and B were confirmed via immunoassay. Treatments included immunosuppression reduction, supportive care, and antibiotics (metronidazole, vancomycin, or both).
Findings:
- Toxic megacolon occurred in five patients, necessitating interventions such as colonoscopic decompression or colonic resection.
- A notable increase in CD colitis incidence was observed after the year 2000, with 38 of 43 cases occurring post-2000.
- One patient died from multiorgan failure following CD enteritis, while others were discharged with functioning grafts.
Implications:
- Clostridium difficile colitis is a severe complication following SOT, with a recent dramatic increase in incidence.
- The potential for life-threatening toxic megacolon must be recognized and managed promptly in SOT recipients.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving outcomes in SOT patients with CD infection.
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