INFECTIOUS DISEASE
New data shed light on preventing cytomegalovirus infection and wound complications, and reveal a disturbing picture of Clostridium-related diarrhea in pregnant women.
IN THIS ARTICLE
The clinical implications of this case series and the reports cited above are clear: When we administer broad-spectrum antibiotics to our patients, we must be ever watchful for signs of toxicity. If the patient develops diarrhea, the offending drug should be discontinued. If the diarrhea does not promptly resolve, tests to isolate C difficile in the stool and identify toxins unique to this organism are advised.
In addition, anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy should be performed to assess the patient for pseudomembranes.
If mild CDAD is confirmed, the patient may be treated with vancomycin or metronidazole. If severe CDAD is identified, vancomycin should be administered, and the patient should be transferred to the ICU for close monitoring and supportive care.
