Key Points
- Use the highest‑yield diagnostic test early; do not let testing delay time‑critical therapy.
- Set objective targets and reassess frequently.
- Plan definitive source control or disease‑specific therapy when indicated; document follow‑up and patient education.
Algorithm
- Confirm CDI with appropriate testing; avoid testing formed stool.
- Stratify severity; treat with fidaxomicin/vancomycin; manage fulminant disease aggressively.
- Prevent recurrence: minimize antibiotics, consider bezlotoxumab/FMT; infection control measures.
Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning
Suspect CDI with new-onset diarrhea after antibiotics or hospitalization. Use toxin immunoassay and NAAT algorithm. Treat initial episodes with fidaxomicin (preferred) or vancomycin; use vancomycin taper or fidaxomicin for recurrences; consider FMT after multiple recurrences.
Treatment Strategy & Disposition
Stabilize ABCs. Initiate guideline‑concordant first‑line therapy with precise dosing and continuous monitoring. Escalate to advanced/procedural interventions based on explicit failure criteria. Define ICU, step‑down, and ward disposition triggers; involve specialty teams early.
Epidemiology / Risk Factors
- Risk varies by comorbidity and precipitants; see citations for condition‑specific data.
Investigations
| Test | Role / Rationale | Typical Findings | Notes |
|---|
| Stool toxin + NAAT algorithm | Diagnosis | Active toxin vs colonization | Avoid testing formed stool |
| Leukocytosis and creatinine | Severity | Severe disease markers | Guide site of care |
| Abdominal imaging (ileus/megacolon) | Complications | Fulminant colitis | Surgery consult |
High-Risk & Disposition Triggers
| Trigger | Why it matters | Action |
|---|
| Fulminant colitis (hypotension/ileus/megacolon) | High mortality | PO/PR vancomycin + IV metronidazole; surgery consult |
| Recurrent episodes ≥2 | Recurrence | FMT referral |
Pharmacology
| Medication/Intervention | Mechanism | Onset | Role in Therapy | Limitations |
|---|
| Fidaxomicin 200 mg PO BID ×10 d (preferred) or Vancomycin 125 mg PO QID ×10 d | Antibiotics | Days | Initial CDI | — |
| Fulminant: Vancomycin PO/PR + IV Metronidazole | Severe/complicated | Hours | Ileus/megacolon coverage | Early surgery consult |
| Recurrent: Fidaxomicin or Vancomycin taper; consider Bezlotoxumab; FMT for multiple recurrences | Recurrence prevention | Days | Reduce relapse | Specialist centers |
Prognosis / Complications
- Outcome depends on timeliness of diagnosis and definitive therapy; monitor for complications.
Patient Education / Counseling
- Provide red‑flag education, adherence guidance, and explicit return precautions; arrange timely specialty follow‑up.
References
- IDSA/SHEA CDI guideline — Link