New advances in the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI)

Review

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Authors: Dennis D Hedge, Joe D Strain, Jodi R Heins, Debra K Farver

Published Date September 2008 Volume 2008:4(5) Pages 949 - 964

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/TCRM.S3145

Dennis D Hedge, Joe D Strain, Jodi R Heins, Debra K Farver

South Dakota State University College of Pharmacy, Brookings, SD 57007, USA

Abstract: Clostridium difficile infections (CDI) have increased in frequency throughout the world. In addition to an increase in frequency, recent CDI epidemics have been linked to a hypervirulent C. difficile strain resulting in greater severity of disease. Although most mild to moderate cases of CDI continue to respond to metronidazole or vancomycin, refractory and recurrent cases of CDI may require alternative therapies. This review provides a brief overview of CDI and summarizes studies involving alternative antibiotics, toxin binders, probiotics, and immunological therapies that can be considered for treatment of acute and recurrent CDI in severe and refractory situations.

Keywords: Clostridium difficile, antibiotics, probiotics, immunological therapy

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