Clostridium Difficile

Clostridium difficile is a Gram-positive, spore-forming, anaerobic bacterium that is a common cause of infectious diarrhea in humans. It is especially problematic in elderly patients, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. It can cause severe dehydration, fever, and abdominal pain, and can potentially be life-threatening. The most effective treatment is the use of antibiotics, although recurrent infections may require more aggressive measures such as fecal microbiota transplantation. Clostridium difficile is also an important nosocomial pathogen, and it is important to maintain strict hygiene standards in health care facilities to limit its spread.