Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 30, 2026

Culturing and Maintaining Clostridium difficile in an Anaerobic Environment
Published on: September 14, 2013
Asymptomatic Clostridium difficile colonization: epidemiology and clinical implications
Luis Furuya-Kanamori1, John Marquess2,3, Laith Yakob4
1Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Building 62 Mills Road, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. luis.furuya-kanamori@anu.edu.au.
Asymptomatic Clostridium difficile colonization is complex, with potential protection but also transmission risks. Understanding its epidemiology and management is crucial for controlling C. difficile infection (CDI).
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- The epidemiology of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has evolved due to virulent strains.
- Asymptomatic C. difficile colonization shares risk factors with symptomatic CDI, complicating its role.
- Understanding asymptomatic colonization is key to managing the broader spectrum of CDI.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review the role of asymptomatic C. difficile colonization in CDI progression.
- Describe the epidemiology of asymptomatic C. difficile colonization.
- Assess screening and infection control for at-risk patients.
- Discuss clinical practice implications.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of PubMed literature from 1980 to 2015.
- Search terms included 'Clostridium difficile' and 'colonization' or 'carriage'.
Main Results:
- No clear definition exists for asymptomatic CDI; 'carriage' and 'colonization' are used interchangeably.
- Prevalence of asymptomatic colonization varies significantly.
- Current estimates may underestimate prevalence due to impracticality of stool cultures in clinical settings.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic C. difficile colonization presents complex challenges in CDI management.
- Colonized individuals may gain disease protection but can contribute to healthcare transmission.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role and impact of asymptomatic colonization.
More Related Videos
06:51Cefoperazone-treated Mouse Model of Clinically-relevant Clostridium difficile Strain R20291
Published on: December 10, 2016
09:12A Protein Microarray Assay for Serological Determination of Antigen-specific Antibody Responses Following Clostridium difficile Infection
Published on: June 15, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Development of Human Microbiota
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Colonisation of Pathogens
Microbiota of the Large Intestine