Abstract

ZEA, Jhon Walter  and  SALAZAR, Clara Lina. Clostridium difficile associated disease: Prevalence and diagnostic laboratory . Infect. [online]. 2012, vol.16, n.4, pp.211-222. ISSN 0123-9392.

Clostridium difficile is a gram-positive, strictly anaerobic, bacillus capable of forming spores that enable it to survive in waters, soils, and in hospital environments, where it can remain for years. It was initially described in 1935 as a normal microorganism of the intestinal microbiota of healthy newborns. This article reviews the general features of the microorganism and the disease associated with C. difficile , emphasising the prevalence of both in our environment, the problems, the lack of knowledge on it, and the laboratory methods that help in its diagnosis and study.

Keywords : Clostridium difficile; Clostridium difficile associated disease; Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea; Pseudomembranous colitis; Diarrhea associated with health care.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )