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A Protocol to Characterize the Morphological Changes of Clostridium difficile in Response to Antibiotic Treatment
Published on: May 25, 2017
Advances in Therapeutic Strategies for the Management of Clostridioides difficile Infection
Antonio Vitiello1, Michela Sabbatucci2, Andrea Zovi3
1Ministry of Health, Directorate-General for Health Prevention, Viale Giorgio Ribotta 5, 00144 Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
The infection caused by Clostridioides difficile represents one of the bacterial infections with the greatest increase in incidence among nosocomial infections in recent years. C. difficile is a Gram-positive bacterium able to produce toxins and spores. In some cases, infection results in severe diarrhoea and fulminant colitis, which cause prolonged hospitalisation and can be fatal, with repercussions also in terms of health economics. C. difficile is the most common cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in the healthcare setting. The problem of bacterial forms that are increasingly resistant to common antibiotic treatments is also reflected in C. difficile infection (CDI). One of the causes of CDI is intestinal dysmicrobialism induced by prolonged antibiotic therapy. Moreover, in recent years, the emergence of increasingly virulent strains resistant to antibiotic treatment has made the picture even more complex. Evidence on preventive treatments to avoid recurrence is unclear. Current guidelines indicate the following antibiotics for the treatment of CDI: metronidazole, vancomycin, and fidaxomycin. This short narrative review provides an overview of CDI, antibiotic resistance, and emerging treatments.
Insights
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a growing nosocomial threat, often linked to antibiotic use and resulting in severe illness. Emerging antibiotic resistance complicates treatment, necessitating research into new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a significant and increasing cause of nosocomial infections.
- This Gram-positive bacterium produces toxins and spores, leading to severe outcomes like colitis and prolonged hospitalization.
- CDI is the primary cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in healthcare settings, exacerbated by rising antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI).
- To discuss the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance in CDI.
- To review emerging treatment and prevention strategies for CDI.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review.
- It synthesizes current evidence on Clostridioides difficile infection, antibiotic resistance, and treatments.
- Literature search on existing guidelines and emerging therapies was conducted.
Main Results:
- Clostridioides difficile infection incidence is rising, particularly in healthcare settings.
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, complicating treatment options.
- Current treatment guidelines recommend metronidazole, vancomycin, and fidaxomycin for CDI.
Conclusions:
- Clostridioides difficile infection presents a significant public health challenge due to increasing incidence and antibiotic resistance.
- The emergence of virulent, resistant strains complicates management and highlights the need for novel therapeutic approaches.
- Further research is needed to clarify preventive treatments and address the complexities of recurrent CDI.
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