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A Protocol to Characterize the Morphological Changes of Clostridium difficile in Response to Antibiotic Treatment
Published on: May 25, 2017
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Clostridium difficile colitis: CT findings and differential diagnosis
Sara Guerri1,2, Ginevra Danti1, Gianluca Frezzetti1
1Department of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Largo G.A. Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
La Radiologia Medica
|July 15, 2019
Summary
Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) diagnosis can be challenging. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) aids in identifying CDI and differentiating it from other colitis types.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is an increasing cause of infectious colitis.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion, antibiotic history, and toxin detection.
- Virulent strains and rising incidence necessitate improved diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of imaging features of Clostridium difficile colitis.
- To highlight the role of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) in CDI diagnosis.
- To assist radiologists in differentiating CDI from other colitis mimics.
Main Methods:
- Review of imaging findings in Clostridium difficile colitis.
- Analysis of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) characteristics.
- Comparison of CECT features between CDI and other colitis etiologies.
Main Results:
- CECT offers noninvasive evaluation of colonic wall and adjacent tissues.
- Significant overlap exists between CECT findings of CDI and other colitis types.
- Specific CECT features can aid in distinguishing CDI from mimics like typhlitis, ischemic colitis, GVHD, radiation colitis, and IBD.
Conclusions:
- CECT is a valuable tool in the diagnostic workup of suspected Clostridium difficile colitis.
- Radiologists must be aware of potential imaging mimics to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- Understanding CECT features aids in differentiating CDI from other inflammatory bowel conditions.
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