C diff: What is it?
C-diff is otherwise formally known as Clostridium difficile and is more recently being called Clostridioides difficile. (1) When balanced by other organisms, C-difficile, a spore-forming bacillus, is naturally occurring and an important part of the GI tract, assisting in the break-down of food to stool. (2) It can also be a contagious bacterium, causing diarrhea and colitis. (1) These conditions can cause abdominal pain, lead to hospitalization, and in some cases may lead to death. (1, 3)
C Diff infection: How does it go from helpful organism to infection?
As stated above, the C-diff organism is naturally occurring in our bowel. It works together with other bacteria to maintain a healthy gut and aid in the absorption of nutrients. (2) When an imbalance of bacteria in the gut occurs, C-diff over-populates and grows out of control. (2) An imbalance can be caused by antibiotic use or illness leading to diarrhea. (2) Additionally, having been hospitalized or living in a long-term-care facility may also increase your risk. (1,3) Too much C-diff bacteria lead to inflammation in the lining of the colon, which in turn can cause a C-diff infection, edema in the colon, and diarrhea. (2)
C Diff: How is it harmful?
A C-diff infection typically causes significant diarrhea which can create electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. (2,3) Other symptoms include fever, weight loss, kidney failure and bloody stool. (3) Left untreated, C diff can lead to a severe infection, perforated bowel, sepsis and/or death. (2,3) If you experience frequent, runny stools (3 or more daily) for more than 2 days, have a fever, abdominal discomfort &/or bloody stools, seeking an evaluation by a medical provider is an important step to take in order to be sure you have not developed a C-diff infection. (3)
C Diff: How does it spread and what is the treatment?
C-diff infection is very contagious. (1,3) It travels ‘hand to mouth’. Simply stated: a hand touching a surface with remnants of C-diff infection that then comes into contact with a mouth is how the infection is spread. (1,3) It is imperative to take steps to prevent spread of this infection. The diagnosis is made by collecting and testing a stool specimen for the specific C-diff bacterium that creates the toxin, causing the infection. (4) A medical provider will treat a C-diff infection with an appropriate antibiotic. (3,4) As antibiotics develop resistance over time to various organisms, it is important to know which antibiotic is best suited for your infection. (6) Your medical provider will decide which antibiotic course of treatment is best for you. (3,4) Know this: if you are concerned about C-diff, but are passing formed stools, it is unlikely that you have a C-diff infection. (3)
C Diff: Preventative measures.
When someone has been diagnosed with a C-diff infection, it is necessary to wipe down areas that have been touched for potential C-diff remnants. (3) As the C-diff organism is a spore-forming bacillus, what is needed to kill the bacterium is a chlorine bleach-based product. (3,5) After applying rubber gloves, wipe down surfaces with a bleach-containing cleanser. (3,5) Also recommended for the prevention of spread is frequent hand washing with soap and water by the individual who has the C-diff infection, and also by all who come in to contact with the individual. (1,3,5) Of note: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers will not be strong enough to kill the spore-forming bacillus. (3) And, finally, always remember to wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, and before eating. (5)
Resources:
1. C. diff Fact Sheet (CDC)
Authored by Beth Freed, CRNP Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board