Chapter 26: Surgical Infections- Pseudomembranous Colitis Flashcards Preview

Surgical Recall > Chapter 26: Surgical Infections- Pseudomembranous Colitis > Flashcards

Flashcards in Chapter 26: Surgical Infections- Pseudomembranous Colitis Deck (5)
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1
Q

What is it?

A

Antibiotic-induced colonic overgrowth of C. difficile

2
Q

What are the signs/symptoms?

A
  • Diarrhea (bloody in 10% of patients)
  • ± fever
  • ± increased WBCs
  • ± abdominal cramps
  • ± abdominal distention
3
Q

What causes the diarrhea?

A

Exotoxin released by C. difficile

4
Q

How is the diagnosis made?

A

Assay stool for exotoxin titer

5
Q

What is the treatment?

A
  • PO metronidazole (Flagyl®; 93% sensitive) or PO vancomycin (97% sensitive);
  • discontinuation of causative agent
  • Never give antiperistaltics

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