Treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
OBJECTIVE
To review the literature related to the treatment and infection control of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).


METHODS
A MEDLINE search (1966-August 2001) of the English literature was conducted.


RESULTS
C. difficile is a leading cause of antibiotic-related diarrhea. The clinical spectrum extends from simple diarrhea to fulminant colitis. Cessation of antibiotic therapy alone is sufficient for mild cases; however, the majority of cases require oral metronidazole as the drug of choice. Vancomycin orally is reserved for patients who have failed to respond to metronidazole, are pregnant, or are severely ill. There is an important role for infection control interventions.


CONCLUSIONS
CDAD is a common infection. Appropriate antibiotic treatment and infection control policies can prevent the spread and reduce the morbidity associated with this disease.
Malnick
Stephen D H
SD
Department of Internal Medicine C, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel. stevash@trendline.co.il
Zimhony
Oren
O
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016360:Clostridioides difficile / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D008795:Metronidazole / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014640:Vancomycin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D008795:Metronidazole; D014640:Vancomycin