Pathogenesis epidemiology-clostridioides difficile infection

• Ingestion of C. diff spores → colonization when colonic flora Δ’d by abx or chemo → release of toxin A/B → colonic mucosal necrosis & inflammation → pseudomembranes

• Most frequently reported nosocomial infxn; community-acquired w/o abx ~⅓of new cases. A/w any abx during or up to 10 wks post Rx (esp. β-lactams, clinda, FQ).

• Elderly, immunocompromised, and IBD Pts can develop CDI w/o recent abx exposure