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Clostridium Difficile Associated Diarrhea and The Elderly Patient
- Infectious diseases remain the leading cause of mortality in the elderly.
- An infection that is increasing in prevlance among elderly patients is Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).
- Mortality rates are up to 3.5 times higher in elderly patients with CDAD compared to younger patients.
- Antimicrobial therapy within the previous 6 weeks is the strongest risk factor for CDAD.
- Though any antibiotic may cause CDAD, clindamycin, fluoroquinolones, and cephalosporins have the highest risk.
- Importantly, the diarrhea may not always bloody.
- Metronidazole remains the treatment of choice for uncomplicated infections.
References
Heppner HJ, et al. Infections in the Elderly. Crit Care Clin 2013; 29:757-774.