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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
12:58
A Protocol to Characterize the Morphological Changes of Clostridium difficile in Response to Antibiotic Treatment
Published on: May 25, 2017
[The approach to recurrent infections with Clostridium difficile]
1Department of Medicine B, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. zivpaz@012.net.il
Harefuah
|March 7, 2009
Summary
Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) is a common nosocomial infection caused by antibiotics. Recurrent CDAD requires creative treatment approaches beyond standard antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) is a frequent hospital-acquired infection.
- Antibiotic use is the primary cause of CDAD.
- Risk factors include prolonged hospitalization, antibiotic type, patient age, and comorbidities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current understanding of CDAD.
- To highlight challenges in recurrent and refractory cases.
- To explore alternative and complementary treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of CDAD epidemiology and treatment.
- Analysis of risk factors associated with CDAD.
- Overview of therapeutic options for recurrent CDAD.
Main Results:
- Vancomycin and Metronidazole are primary treatments for CDAD.
- 15-25% of patients experience recurrent disease.
- Recurrent CDAD necessitates novel therapeutic combinations.
Conclusions:
- CDAD is a significant nosocomial threat.
- Standard antibiotic therapy is insufficient for some patients.
- Innovative treatments like probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation are crucial for refractory CDAD.
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