Individuals are 10 times more liked to get C. diff during the time they are taking antibiotics or the three months after. C. Diff is also commonly seen in hospital or nursing home setting but is not limited to these areas. Those with weakened immune systems, are older than 65, or have previous exposure are also at higher risk.

Example of lab tests:

1. Toxin detection EIA: relatively simple and less espensive than PCR

2. Molecular tests: detects the gene encoding toxin B that are highly sensitive (preferred test)

3. Tissue cytotoxin assay: Test is more sensitve than EIAs, slow turnover rate.

4. Stool culture

5. Antigen detection

It can also be a suspected diagnosis if an individual presents with diarrhea and also received antibiotic in the last 2 months.

(more here)

Common Complications

• Dehydration

• Colitis (Inflammation of colon)

Rare Complication

• Serious Intestinal conditions, like megacolon

• Sepsis

• Death