Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Clostridium difficile infection other imaging findings
Introduction
Overview
Overview
In patients with suspected C. difficile infection and inconclusive laboratory diagnostic findings, atypical presentation, or unsuccessful antimicrobial therapy, either a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy is indicated. During endoscopy, multiple biopsies should be obtained for microscopic histopathological analysis. On gross examination, colonic pseudomembranes with yellow colored plaque formation are typical findings.
Other Imaging Findings
Other Imaging Findings
In patients with suspected C. difficile infection and inconclusive laboratory diagnostic findings, atypical presentation, or unsuccessful antimicrobial therapy, either a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy is indicated. During endoscopy, multiple biopsies should be obtained for microscopic histopathological analysis.
Gross Endoscopy Findings
The following findings on endoscopy (either sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) are suggestive of C. difficile infection:
- Colonic pseudomembranes with yellow colored plaque formation
- Areas of hemorrhage, which may be either multifocal, segmental, or diffuse
- Hyperemic congestion
- Marked edema formation of the intestinal wall
- Superficial erosions and ulcer formation
For more details about the biopsy findings of C. difficile infection, click here
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yazan Daaboul, M.D.