difficileInfektion

Clostridioides difficile infection, commonly referred to as C. difficile or CDI, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridioides difficile. It is a significant healthcare-associated infection, often occurring in hospitals and long-term care facilities. The infection typically affects the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

C. difficile infection is often a complication of antibiotic use, particularly broad-spectrum antibiotics that disrupt the normal gut flora. The infection can range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially leading to life-threatening complications such as toxic megacolon, pseudomembranous colitis, and sepsis.

Diagnosis of C. difficile infection is typically made through laboratory testing, which may include stool cultures, enzyme immunoassays, or nucleic acid amplification tests. Treatment usually involves the use of specific antibiotics, such as metronidazole or vancomycin, to eliminate the bacteria and restore normal gut flora.

Prevention strategies for C. difficile infection include hand hygiene, proper use of antibiotics, and environmental cleaning to reduce the spread of the bacteria. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in preventing and managing C. difficile infections through adherence to infection control practices and appropriate antibiotic stewardship.