Podcast
Questions and Answers
Explain the impact of antimicrobial treatment on the normal flora.
Explain the impact of antimicrobial treatment on the normal flora.
Antimicrobial treatment can suppress the more predominant species of normal flora, which can create an opportunity for Clostridium difficile to proliferate.
What are the toxins produced by pathogenic strains of Clostridium difficile?
What are the toxins produced by pathogenic strains of Clostridium difficile?
Pathogenic strains of Clostridium difficile produce toxins A and B. Toxin A leads to excessive fluid secretion, while toxin B is a cytotoxin.
What are the recommended treatments for Clostridium difficile infection?
What are the recommended treatments for Clostridium difficile infection?
The recommended treatments for Clostridium difficile infection include discontinuing predisposing medications, such as antibiotics like clindamycin, fluid replacement, and oral metronidazole or vancomycin.
