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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
07:06
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
A case of recurrent Clostridium difficile diarrhea
1Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, School of Pharmacy, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0533, USA. apakyz@vcu.edu
Summary
This case study highlights recurrent Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) in an elderly patient. Vancomycin therapy was effective, and probiotic use warrants further investigation for CDAD treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Clostridium difficile is a significant cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea.
- Increasingly virulent strains of C. difficile are associated with severe disease, treatment failures, and relapses.
- Elderly individuals in long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable to C. difficile-associated disease (CDAD).
Observation:
- This case details a recurring CDAD infection in an 87-year-old long-term care resident requiring hospitalization.
- Initial treatment with oral metronidazole showed limited improvement for diarrheal symptoms.
- The patient was switched to oral vancomycin, leading to clinical improvement.
Findings:
- A 14-day course of oral vancomycin was successfully completed.
- Despite a positive C. difficile antigen test before therapy completion, the patient was asymptomatic.
- The patient received Lactobacillus, a probiotic, concurrently with antibiotic treatment.
Implications:
- Vancomycin is an effective treatment for recurrent CDAD in elderly patients.
- The role of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus, in managing CDAD requires additional research.
- Understanding risk factors and effective treatment strategies for CDAD in vulnerable populations is crucial.
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