Clostridium difficile colitis

Definitions

Overview

Clostridioides difficile colitis results from changes in the balance of healthy bacteria in the colon. It often happens after antibiotic use. C. difficile also can be transmitted from person to person by spores. It can cause severe damage to the colon and can even be fatal.

Symptoms

Symptoms include diarrhea, belly pain and fever.

Treatments

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