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Isolation of Clostridium difficile from human jejunum: identification of a reservoir for disease?
Abstract:
The possibility that the small intestine may represent a reservoir for Clostridium difficile was studied, using segments of human jejunum collected at necropsy. Our results (three of 100 specimens positive for C difficile culture) support the hypothesis that C difficile can be found in human jejunum and that it adheres to the normal mucosa as a resident bacterium. These findings suggest that gastrointestinal disease caused by C difficile has an endogenous origin.
Insights
Clostridium difficile can reside in the small intestine. This suggests that gastrointestinal infections caused by this bacterium may originate from within the body, rather than external sources.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Clostridium difficile is a significant cause of infectious diarrhea.
- The primary reservoir for Clostridium difficile has been debated, with focus often on the colon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the small intestine, specifically the jejunum, as a potential reservoir for Clostridium difficile.
- To determine if Clostridium difficile can colonize and adhere to normal jejunal mucosa.
Main Methods:
- Human jejunal tissue segments were obtained post-mortem.
- Specimens were cultured for the presence of Clostridium difficile.
Main Results:
- Clostridium difficile was successfully cultured from 3% (3 of 100) of the jejunal specimens.
- The bacterium was observed to adhere to the normal jejunal mucosa.
Conclusions:
- The human jejunum can harbor Clostridium difficile.
- These findings support the hypothesis that Clostridium difficile infections can arise from an endogenous source within the gastrointestinal tract.