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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(1): 013-017
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-970195
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Clostridium difficile Colitis

Judith L. Trudel1
  • 1Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota
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Publication History

Publication Date:
28 February 2007 (online)

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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.

KEYWORDS

Clostridium difficile - pseudomembranous enterocolitis - antibiotic-associated colitis

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Judith L TrudelM.D. 

Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota

393 Dunlap Ave. North, #500, St. Paul, MN 55104

Email: jtrudel@colonrectal.org

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