Clostridium difficile colitis

Definitions

Overview

Clostridium difficile colitis results from disruption of normal healthy bacteria in the colon, often from antibiotics. C. difficile can also be transmitted from person to person by spores. It can cause severe damage to the colon and even be fatal.

Symptoms

Symptoms include diarrhea, belly pain, and fever.

Treatments

Treatment may include specific antibiotics, surgery, or a procedure known as a fecal microbiota transplant.