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Updated: May 10, 2026
11:13
Culturing and Maintaining Clostridium difficile in an Anaerobic Environment
Published on: September 14, 2013
Clostridium difficile Infection
Christopher L Knight1, Christina M Surawicz
1Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, 4245 Roosevelt Way Northeast, Box 354760, Seattle, WA 98109, USA. cknight@uw.edu
The Medical Clinics of North America
|July 2, 2013
Summary
Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a growing cause of infectious diarrhea, driven by a resistant new strain. Treatment varies by severity, with fecal transplants showing promise for recurrent cases.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile is a significant cause of infectious diarrhea.
- Incidence has risen sharply since 2000, linked to a novel, more virulent strain.
- This strain exhibits enhanced toxin production and antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI).
- To outline treatment strategies for CDI based on disease severity.
- To highlight emerging therapies and prevention methods for CDI.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on Clostridium difficile.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends in CDI incidence.
- Evaluation of treatment guidelines and emerging therapeutic options.
Main Results:
- Oral metronidazole is recommended for mild to moderate CDI.
- Vancomycin, with potential intravenous metronidazole, is indicated for severe CDI.
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promise for recurrent CDI.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of CDI requires tailored treatment approaches.
- Fecal microbiota transplantation represents a promising option for refractory CDI.
- Preventing nosocomial transmission is critical for controlling CDI outbreaks.
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