Pharmacological Management of Pediatric Clostridioides difficile Infection: Clarifying the Controversies

J Pediatr Health Care. 2022 Mar-Apr;36(2):181-192. doi: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2021.06.005. Epub 2021 Aug 17.

Abstract

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a major public health concern for pediatric and adult patients. The management of pediatric CDI poses a challenge to healthcare providers due to lack of strong randomized controlled trials to guide pharmacological management. Additionally, recent updates to CDI guidelines recommend oral vancomycin over metronidazole for the management of CDI in adults, leaving questions regarding how to best manage pediatric patients. This continuing education pharmacotherapy review describes available evidence for the safety and efficacy of medications used in the treatment and management of pediatric CDI and aims to clarify discrepancies between pediatric and adult recommendations.

Keywords: Clostridioides difficile infection; Pediatric; pharmacotherapy.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Clostridioides
  • Clostridioides difficile*
  • Clostridium Infections* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Vancomycin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Vancomycin