C difficile colonization results in a wide spectrum of clinical conditions, including an asymptomatic carrier state; mild, self-limited diarrhea; pseudomembranous colitis; and fulminant colitis. Physical examination is generally nonspecific in patients with mild C difficile infection. Most patients develop diarrhea during or shortly after starting antibiotics. However, 25%-40% of patients may not become symptomatic for up to 10 weeks after completing antibiotic therapy.
Symptoms often include the following:
Mild to moderate watery diarrhea that is rarely bloody
Cramping abdominal pain
Anorexia
Malaise
Fever, especially in more severe cases
For more on the presentation of C difficile infection, read here.
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Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Michael Stuart Bronze. Fast Five Quiz: Are You Able to Confront Clostridium Difficile Infections? - Medscape - Jan 04, 2016.
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