Colitis caused by Clostridium difficile: a review

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is an anaerobe implicated in pseudomembranous colitis.
• This inflammatory bowel disease is frequently associated with antimicrobial therapy.
• Antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiota, promoting C. difficile infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence linking C. difficile to pseudomembranous colitis.
• To explore potential pathogenetic mechanisms of C. difficile-associated colitis.
• To outline diagnostic and treatment strategies for C. difficile infection.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on C. difficile and colitis.
• Discussion of hypotheses regarding antibiotic-induced pathogenesis.
• Description of laboratory diagnostic methods including culture and toxin assay.
• Mention of selective media for C. difficile isolation.

Main Results:

• C. difficile toxin production is a key factor in pseudomembranous colitis.
• Various antimicrobial agents can precipitate C. difficile infection.
• Antibiotic suppression of competing bacteria and altered mucosal adhesion are proposed mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• C. difficile is a significant cause of antibiotic-associated colitis.
• Accurate laboratory diagnosis is crucial for patient management.
• Vancomycin is a recommended treatment option when initial measures fail.