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Surgical aspects of Clostridium difficile colitis
1University Department of Surgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK.
The British Journal of Surgery
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Surgical patients face rising Clostridium difficile colitis rates. Key factors include increased awareness, better diagnostics, antibiotic use, and vulnerable patient populations, necessitating strict infection control measures.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Infections
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Increasing incidence of Clostridium difficile colitis in surgical patients.
- Review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of C. difficile infection from a surgical viewpoint.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of Clostridium difficile infection in surgical patients.
- To highlight the increasing burden of this nosocomial infection.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review utilizing Medline search.
- Focus on English language publications related to C. difficile.
Main Results:
- Increased C. difficile diagnosis linked to heightened awareness, improved diagnostics, and broader antibiotic use.
- Rising numbers of elderly and immunocompromised patients in critical care settings contribute to higher infection rates.
- Significant economic impact due to morbidity, mortality, and extended hospital stays.
Conclusions:
- Judicious antibiotic stewardship is crucial for minimizing C. difficile infection.
- Patient isolation and stringent staff hygiene are essential for controlling nosocomial spread.
- Effective management strategies are vital to reduce morbidity, mortality, and economic consequences.