Abstract
Background Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a relevant healthcare burden worldwide and one of the leading causes for nosocomial diarrhea. Besides mild courses, the development of a severe infection can occur and has a relevant impact on healthcare costs and patient outcome.Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study over a 4 year-long period to analyze the incidence of CDI and the contributing risk factors for a severe course at a tertiary care clinic. Independent risk factors were determined by a multivariable logistic regression analysis.Results A total of 761 CDI cases were identified in the study period, thereof 612 (80.4%) cases were nosocomially acquired. The mean incidence for a CDI was 0.42 cases per 1000 patient-days. A severe CDI occurred in 131 cases (17.2%). Independent risk factors for a severe course were pulmonary disease, a Charlson comorbidity index >3, and a preceding antibiotic therapy within three months with glycopeptides (vancomycin/teicoplanin) and/or aminoglycosides.Conclusions This study highlights the relevant burden of CDI in hospitals. Moreover, it underscores that specific knowledge of risk factors contributing to severe CDI is crucial to optimize treatment, infection prevention measures and to guide clinical monitoring and therapy strategy.
Evaluation of risk factors for a fulminant Clostridium difficile infection after cardiac surgery: a single-center, retrospective cohort study