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Antimicrobial agent-associated colitis and diarrhea
Abstract:
Although antimicrobial agent-associated colitis has been recognized as a clinicopathologic entity for years, the cause of this disease has been determined only recently. Virtually all cases of pseudomembranous colitis and some cases of antimicrobial agent-associated nonspecific colitis or diarrhea have been shown to be caused by a toxin of Clostridium difficile. Methods for cultivating C difficile from feces and for detecting the toxin have been developed. Oral administration of vancomycin has proved to be effective for the treatment of C difficile-induced colitis, although isolated instances of relapse after treatment have been documented.The discovery of C difficile as a human intestinal pathogen has provided an explanation for some, but not all cases of antimicrobial agent-associated diarrhea. The epidemiology, pathogenesis and means of prevention of C difficile toxin-induced diarrhea remain to be determined.
Insights
Clostridium difficile toxin causes most antibiotic-associated colitis and diarrhea. Vancomycin effectively treats this condition, though relapses can occur, and further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Antimicrobial agent-associated colitis is a recognized clinical condition.
- The specific causative agent has only recently been identified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cause of antimicrobial agent-associated colitis and diarrhea.
- To discuss the treatment and implications of this discovery.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of Clostridium difficile from fecal samples.
- Detection of Clostridium difficile toxin.
Main Results:
- Clostridium difficile toxin is the cause of most pseudomembranous colitis and some nonspecific colitis or diarrhea associated with antimicrobial agents.
- Oral vancomycin is an effective treatment for Clostridium difficile-induced colitis, with some cases of relapse reported.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium difficile is a significant intestinal pathogen causing antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal issues.
- Further research is required to understand the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and prevention of Clostridium difficile toxin-induced diarrhea.