Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections in the colon. These infections are known as C. difficile infections (CDIs) and are a common cause of diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, also known as colitis. CDIs most commonly occur in people who have recently been treated with antibiotics, as the drugs can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, allowing C. difficile to overgrow.
Symptoms of CDI can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. In some cases, the infection can lead to more serious complications such as dehydration, sepsis, and even death. CDIs are typically treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the infection can recur or become chronic. In these cases, additional treatment options, such as fecal transplantation, may be necessary. It is important to maintain good hygiene and to follow recommended infection control practices to prevent the spread of C. difficile in healthcare settings.
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