Clostridial colitis

Diagnosis

The following methods are commonly used to diagnose Clostridium:

1. Examination of feces. This method is used to determine the presence of Clostridium toxins in the stool of an adult or child. The test detects the presence of harmful bacteria that cause pseudomembranous colitis. The patient receives the results of the study within a day, in some cases a second study is required.
2. Colonoscopy. Allows the doctor to examine the inner lining of the colon and look for possible changes caused by Clostridium difficile. During the procedure, the doctor uses a thin, flexible tube that is inserted through the rectum. Colonoscopy is not performed if toxic dilatation is suspected to avoid the risk of colonic perforation.
3. CT of the abdomen. In some cases, a CT scan may be needed to get a detailed picture of the colon and determine the extent of inflammation. This method helps to clarify the diagnosis, especially with a complex clinical picture.
4. X-ray examination. An x-ray can detect swelling of the colon mucosa or its expansion, which are characteristic signs of a clostridial infection.
5. Bacteriological analysis of feces. It is carried out in difficult cases to confirm the diagnosis and determine the activity of Clostridium difficile.

Sometimes, doctors use additional research methods, including agglutination and polymerase chain reaction to detect Clostridium difficile toxins in the body. These tests help determine the best treatment strategy.

Pseudomembranous colitis: clinical guidelines for treatment

The treatment of pseudomembranous colitis requires an integrated approach. Its purpose is not only to relieve unpleasant symptoms, but also to restore healthy intestinal microflora.

In most cases, doctors undertake the following treatments:

• Cancellation of antibiotics. It is necessary to stop taking the drugs. This helps to restore the balance of the intestinal microflora and stops the growth of C. difficile bacteria.
• Replenishing fluid balance. Often the antibiotic causes associated diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. Doctors provide normal levels of water and electrolytes in the patient's body using intravenous solutions.
• Special diet. During treatment, it is important to exclude fatty, fried, smoked foods, as well as white bread and carbonated drinks.
• Antibacterial therapy. Antibiotics may be given to kill the Clostridium difficile bacteria. The choice of drug depends on the situation and the severity of the disease.
• Probiotics. These preparations contain beneficial bacteria that help restore a healthy intestinal microflora.
• Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). This treatment method involves the transplantation of healthy microflora from the donor's stool into the patient's intestines. PMT is used when other treatments fail to improve.
• Surgical intervention. It is carried out with severe complications or ineffectiveness of conservative therapy. During the operation, the doctor removes the affected parts of the intestine or produces its artificial exit (stoma).

For mild infections, metronidazole is considered the first-line drug. If the patient is diagnosed with a severe form of the disease, the doctor prescribes Vancomycin.

Disease prevention

Prevention of clostridiosis includes several basic measures:

• Cautious use of antibiotics. Drugs should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor and for a strictly limited period of time.
• Hygiene. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water can prevent the spread of Clostridium.
• Isolation. If a disease is detected, it is necessary to limit contacts with relatives and be treated in a hospital.
• Compliance with the rules of antiseptics and disinfection. All medical institutions strictly follow the rules of antiseptics and disinfection, which helps to prevent the spread of infection.

If you experience any symptoms of Clostridium in your gut, do not hesitate to contact your doctor for help and advice.

Online appointment

Online appointment is a convenient and modern way to get access to medical care without leaving home. The service is provided by the network of clinics "K+31" and allows patients to sign up for an examination or consultation with any specialist.

An appointment is made through the reservation system and records in the Medical Information System (MIS), in accordance with the doctor's schedule. Please note that when recording, the general time frame is indicated, which can be adjusted later.

To resolve all issues, you can also call +7 (499) 999-31-31. The administrator of the clinic will promptly advise you and make an appointment with a doctor.