[Re-emergent etiologies: Clostridium difficile]

Abstract

Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) can range from uncomplicated diarrhea to sepsis and even death. CDAD rates and severity are increasing, possibly due to a new strain. Transmission of C. difficile occurs primarily in health care facilities via the fecal-oral route following transient contamination of the hands of health care workers and patients; contamination of the patient care environment also plays an important role. Education of hospital staff appropriate diagnostic testing, early treatment, and measures for preventing spread of the pathogen could lead to decreasing the morbidity and mortality rates.