title: Clostridium difficile colitis.
abstract: Clostridium difficile enterocolitis is endemic in most modern hospitals. The spectrum of clinical presentation varies from the asymptomatic carrier state to fulminant colitis with toxic megacolon and perforation. Highly toxigenic and lethal strains of C. difficile have emerged worldwide. Medical treatment consists of discontinuing the precipitating antibiotic, supportive measures and bowel rest, and antibiotic treatment with metronidazole or vancomycin. Surgical treatment may be necessary in cases of fulminant disease. Subtotal colectomy with end ileostomy is the operation of choice.
authors.affiliation: Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55104, USA. jtrudel@colonrectal.org
authors.forename: Judith L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Trudel