Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) Infection

Description

A bacterium that can cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening inflammation of the colon. It most commonly affects older adults in hospitals or long-term care facilities and typically occurs after use of antibiotic medications.

Common Symptoms

• Watery diarrhea (at least three bowel movements per day for two or more days)
• Mild abdominal cramping and tenderness
• In severe cases: colitis, toxic megacolon, sepsis.

Common Causes

• Infection with C. difficile bacteria. The bacteria are found in the environment and feces. People get infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then their mouths. Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics disrupts normal gut flora, allowing C. diff to flourish.

Treatment Information