Overview of Clostridium difficile infection as an emerging health care facility-acquired infection

Clostridium difficile, one of the most important health care-associated pathogens in the United States and Europe, is associated with increased in-hospital mortality and economic burden. The incidence of this infection (CDI) has increased significantly in the last decade and has emerged in populations previously considered as low risk. This article provides a brief overview regarding known risk factors of CDI, including health care facility stays, advanced age, antibiotic use, co-morbidities, and the use of other medications (eg, antacids, proton pump inhibitors). An overview of clinical and laboratory findings are described in relationship to surveillance definitions, clinical presentation, and diagnosis of the disease. Discussion of morbidity-and mortality-associated parameters are provided with a review of economic costs.