Clostridium difficile infection as interdisciplinary challenge. Current discussions in respect to epidemiology, diagnostic methods, risk classification as well as treatment options
Lipp, H-Peter.
Medizinische Monatsschrift für Pharmazeuten 36(2): 53-62; Quiz 63-4
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0342-9601 PMID: 23451705 Document Number: 668512
Within the last decade, the incidence ofclostridium difficile infection (CDI) has increased in many regions all over the world including the highly virulent B1/NAP1/027 strain. Meanwhile, the value of predisposing risk factors and diagnostic measures as well as the spectrum of therapeutic options has been elucidated in more detail. Most commonly applied antiinfective agents include metronidazole, vancomycin and fidaxomicin, however, several questions remain unanswered in respect to their optimized use which is also true for some further drugs which have not yet been approved for this indication. Based on the complexity and potential severity of CID, antibiotic stewardships should be implemented more intensively in order to avoid a further spread of highly virulent and resistant strains in the near future.