Clostridioides difficile (often shortened to C. difficile or C. diff) is a bacterium that causes an infection of the colon (large intestine). It's also sometimes spelled Clostridium difficile.
Understanding C. diff
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C. diff infection, also called C. difficile infection or CDI, can range in severity from mild diarrhea to a life-threatening inflammation of the colon.
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The bacterium itself is very common, but problems arise when it overgrows the healthy bacteria in the gut, usually after antibiotic use. Antibiotics can kill off beneficial bacteria, allowing C. diff to multiply and release toxins.
Symptoms of C. diff Infection
Symptoms can vary, but common signs include:
- Watery diarrhea (at least three bowel movements a day for two or more days)
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
Transmission and Risk Factors
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C. diff spreads through spores, which can survive for long periods on surfaces. These spores are passed in feces.
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Risk factors include:
- Antibiotic use
- Older age
- Hospitalization or residence in a long-term care facility
- Weakened immune system
- Previous C. diff infection
Diagnosis and Treatment
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Diagnosis is typically made through a stool test.
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Treatment usually involves:
- Stopping the antibiotic that triggered the infection, if possible.
- Taking a different antibiotic specifically targeted at C. diff.
- In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is another treatment option, especially for recurrent infections. FMT involves transferring stool from a healthy donor into the patient's colon to restore the balance of gut bacteria.
In summary, C. diff is a bacterium that can cause a significant intestinal infection, particularly following antibiotic use, leading to diarrhea and other gastrointestinal distress. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage the infection and prevent complications.
