By ULY CLINIC

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Pseudomembrenous Colitis

 

Introduction

 

This condition is caused by Clostridium difficile a gram positive, anaerobic bacteria causing antibiotic associated diarrhoea as a result of altered bacterial flora and release of enterotoxins.  

 

Diagnostic Criteria 

 

• Bloody Diarrhea 

• Abdominal cramps and tenderness 

• Nausea, fever, dehydration 

• Lower endoscopic pathognomic findings of pseudomembranous yellowish plaques overlying the ulcerated and friable rectal sigmoid colon mucosa   PLUS

• Laboratory evidence of C. difficile toxin A-B isolation from cultured stool samples (Toxin B) OR ELISA assay (ToxinA)  

 

Pharmacological Treatment:

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Stop the causative antibiotics 

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• Metronidazole (PO) 400mg 8 hourly for 7 days 

OR

• Vancomycin (PO) Adults, 125mg–500mg 6 hourly for 5–10 days

 

Note:

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• Resuscitative and supportive management should be instituted as for UC section note above

• Refer to next level of care with adequate expertise and facilities for all suspected cases for initial evaluation and management and cases presenting with  acute complications such as Toxic megacolon

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Updated on, 2.11.2020

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References

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1. STG