Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile Save
ICD-10 code: A04.7
Chapter: Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile is a type of bacterial infection that affects the colon. This infection is caused by the Clostridium difficile bacteria which produces toxins that damage the lining of the colon and cause inflammation. The infection can range from mild to life-threatening, especially in people with weakened immune systems or those taking antibiotics for a long time.
Symptoms of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile
The symptoms of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile can range from mild to severe. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Nausea
- Bloating
Severe cases of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile can cause dehydration, kidney failure, and even death.
Causes of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile
The main cause of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile is the overgrowth of the bacteria in the colon. This overgrowth can occur when the balance of bacteria in the gut is disrupted, usually due to the use of antibiotics for a long time. Antibiotics kill off the “good” bacteria in the gut, which allows the Clostridium difficile bacteria to grow and produce toxins that cause inflammation and damage to the colon.
Treatment of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile
The treatment of Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile usually involves a course of antibiotics that target the bacteria. The antibiotics used to treat this infection include vancomycin and metronidazole. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required, and surgery may be necessary in rare cases.
It’s important to note that the use of probiotics has shown some promise in treating and preventing Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that promote gut health and can help restore the balance of bacteria in the gut. However, more research is needed to fully understand how probiotics can be used to treat this infection.
Conclusion
Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile is a serious infection that can cause severe symptoms and even death. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of this infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system or have been taking antibiotics for a long time. With proper treatment, most people recover from this infection and can return to their