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Updated: Jul 3, 2026
12:58
A Protocol to Characterize the Morphological Changes of Clostridium difficile in Response to Antibiotic Treatment
Published on: May 25, 2017
Clostridium difficile infection: emerging concepts and treatments
Thomas Mathew1, Philip A Higginbottom
1Scripps Clinic, Mail Drop 201N, Division of Infectious Diseases, 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Current Gastroenterology Reports
|July 17, 2008
Summary
Clostridium difficile infection is a common cause of hospital-associated diarrhea. Current treatments are failing, leading to frequent relapses, especially in elderly patients, necessitating updated clinical guidance.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea.
- Despite established understanding, initial treatment success rates are below 66%.
- A new hypervirulent strain and increasing relapses, particularly in the elderly, pose significant challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review for clinicians on CDI.
- To cover diagnosis, infection control, and treatment strategies.
- To address the management of recurrent and refractory CDI.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article.
- It synthesizes current literature and clinical knowledge.
- Focuses on practical updates for healthcare providers.
Main Results:
- Initial CDI treatment cure rates are suboptimal.
- Recurrent CDI is increasingly common, especially in older adults.
- A more virulent C. difficile strain is contributing to the problem.
Conclusions:
- Updated clinical guidance is crucial for managing CDI.
- Effective infection control measures remain paramount.
- Novel and tailored treatment approaches are needed for relapsing CDI.
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