Clostridium Difficile Support Group

Interesting Facts, Figures, Theories & Research

Here you will find some interesting facts, figures, theories and research about c. difficile. Some of this material is unverified and may not be factual. Please see the warning/disclaimer at the bottom of this page before reading any of the following material. You will also find very interesting/ helpful information on the Glossary & Definitions Page.

The bacteria, clostridium difficile, was first "described" in 1935. This means that it was the first time that it was documented and identified physically as a separate strain of bacteria through a microscope.
In 1978, clostridium difficile was recognized as the cause of mostly all cases of pseudomembraneous colitis.
30% to 60% of Flagyl/Metronidazole is metabolized in the liver.
Oral vancomycin is not absorbed as much as metronidazole in the body - therefore has a lesser effect on the liver than metronidazole/Flagyl.
The reason that vancomycin is not a "first-line" defense (while Flagyl/metronidazole is) is because of the growing fears of vancomycin resistant pathogens. Vancomycin usually works very well, but for pathogens to become resistant would be a disaster or an outbreak. There have only been a few cases reported each year of VRE, but they are quarantined immediately.
Bismuth subsalicylate (available OTC as "Pepto-Bismol"), has been shown to have some antibacterial properties against c. difficile. It is still in the research phase. Interestingly, most anti-diarrhea medications are cautioned against being prescribed to patients with c. difficile. Some doctors are reversing this thought and many are prescribing Immodium. Follow your doctor's specific treatment plans.
The highest infection rates of c. difficile are from November through February.
C. difficile associated diarrhea reportedly affects 2 million per year in the United States.
C. diff is fatal in 28% to 43% in patients when left untreated.
3% of healthy adults carry c. difficile bacteria without symptoms of c. difficile colitis.
It is more common for children to carry c. difficile bacteria. A child's intestinal bacteria/flora makeup is different from that of an adult.
16% of hospitalized adult patients carry the c. difficile bacteria.
In England & Wales, c. difficile cases grew 200% in 5 years.
VRE's - Vancomycin resistant enterococci (bacteria) were reported in Europe in 1986 and in the US in 1988.
5% of patients with advanced stages of c. difficile colitis undergo colectomies (removal of the large intestines).
10% to 20% of patients with c. difficile have a relapse.
Immunoassays (toxin tests) are only 65% accurate most of the time.
After infection in the household, be sure to clean thoroughly with common household cleaners (using rubber gloves, paying special attention to the bathroom.)

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