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Multiple organ failure due to Clostridium difficile sepsis. A case report
C Possamai1, U Corbanese, G Possamai
1I Divisione Medica, Ospedale Civile Santa Maria dei Battuti, Conegliano, Treviso.
Minerva Anestesiologica
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Clostridium difficile infection can cause severe sepsis and septic shock, especially in patients with cirrhosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent severe complications like ARDS and potential surgical emergencies.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Hepatology
Background:
- Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a significant cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea.
- Cirrhosis is a known risk factor for severe infections and complications.
- Severe sepsis and septic shock represent a life-threatening systemic inflammatory response.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old female with a history of cirrhosis presented with severe sepsis.
- Clinical manifestations rapidly progressed to septic shock and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
- Symptoms mimicked an acute abdomen, necessitating surgical evaluation.
Findings:
- The patient's severe sepsis was attributed to Clostridium difficile infection.
- Delayed diagnosis of CDI likely exacerbated the clinical severity and progression.
- The case highlights the potential for severe systemic manifestations of CDI in cirrhotic patients.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering CDI in cirrhotic patients presenting with severe systemic illness.
- Prompt recognition and treatment of CDI may prevent progression to septic shock, ARDS, and unnecessary surgical interventions.
- Enhanced diagnostic vigilance for CDI in vulnerable populations is warranted to improve patient outcomes.