Contact Precautions
Anaerobic spore forming gram positive bacilli, box-car shaped.
Nosocomial more common than community onset diarrhea usually after taking antibiotics.
Can occur in outbreaks.
Recurrence is very common therefore previous history of C. difficile is a risk factor.
Antacids, especially proton-pump inhibitors, and chemotherapy also increase risk.
Wide range of symptoms possible.
Probiotic use with antibiotics reduces antimicrobial associated diarrhea, and may be helpful in prevention of C. diff.
In refractory cases, stool transplants have been effective.