Infección por Clostridioides difficile en el adulto

Purpose

This review aims to provide clear and precise information about Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), with the goal of enabling physicians to understand it and proceed with timely diagnosis and treatment.

Data Sources and Study Selection

Databases such as PubMed, Ovid, SciELO, Embase, and MEDLINE were consulted, along with general web searches and references previously known to the authors. Studies, guidelines, and reviews addressing the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CDI were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data were extracted from studies analyzing clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic options. The data synthesis aimed to provide a comprehensive view of best practices based on current evidence.

Conclusions

CDI is a significant cause of gastrointestinal disease in healthcare settings, particularly following antibiotic use. Its incidence is increasing, even in young people without risk factors. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and the detection of C. difficile toxins or toxigenic genes using molecular biology techniques or enzyme immunoassays. This review emphasizes the importance of rapid detection and the implementation of effective therapies to reduce associated morbidity.