Clostridium difficile infection: Early history, diagnosis and molecular strain typing methods

Microb Pathog. 2016 Aug:97:59-78. doi: 10.1016/j.micpath.2016.05.018. Epub 2016 May 26.

Abstract

Recognised as the leading cause of nosocomial antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, the incidence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) remains high despite efforts to improve prevention and reduce the spread of the bacterium in healthcare settings. In the last decade, many studies have focused on the epidemiology and rapid diagnosis of CDI. In addition, different typing methods have been developed for epidemiological studies. This review explores the history of C. difficile and the current scope of the infection. The variety of available laboratory tests for CDI diagnosis and strain typing methods are also examined.

Keywords: C. difficile; Infection; Laboratory diagnosis; Toxins; Typing methods.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / methods*
  • Clostridioides difficile / classification
  • Clostridioides difficile / genetics
  • Clostridioides difficile / isolation & purification*
  • Clostridium Infections / chemically induced
  • Clostridium Infections / diagnosis*
  • Clostridium Infections / epidemiology
  • Clostridium Infections / microbiology
  • Diarrhea / chemically induced
  • Diarrhea / diagnosis*
  • Diarrhea / epidemiology
  • Diarrhea / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Molecular Typing / methods*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents