Which Clostridium species causes pseudomembranous colitis or antibiotic-associated colitis?

Which Clostridium species causes pseudomembranous colitis or antibiotic-associated colitis?

• A. C. ramosum
• B. C. difficile
• C. C. perfringens
• D. C. sporogenes

Answer: (B)

Clostridium difficile is the species primarily associated with pseudomembranous colitis, which often occurs as a result of antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics can disrupt the normal gut flora, allowing C. difficile to proliferate and produce toxins that damage the intestinal lining. This condition can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The formation of pseudomembranes in the colon is a hallmark of this infection, characterized by a white or grayish membrane that covers the inflamed intestinal wall. The high incidence of C. difficile infections in healthcare settings underscores its clinical significance, especially in patients who have recently received antibiotic therapy or have underlying health issues. Through understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of C. difficile, healthcare providers can better manage and prevent episodes of antibiotic-associated colitis.

Clostridium difficile is the species primarily associated with pseudomembranous colitis, which often occurs as a result of antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics can disrupt the normal gut flora, allowing C. difficile to proliferate and produce toxins that damage the intestinal lining. This condition can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The formation of pseudomembranes in the colon is a hallmark of this infection, characterized by a white or grayish membrane that covers the inflamed intestinal wall.

The high incidence of C. difficile infections in healthcare settings underscores its clinical significance, especially in patients who have recently received antibiotic therapy or have underlying health issues. Through understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of C. difficile, healthcare providers can better manage and prevent episodes of antibiotic-associated colitis.