Acid Suppression Linked to Severe Clostridium difficile Infection

Prescription use predicted both morbidity and mortality.

In several studies, acid suppression has been associated with risk for both Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) and recurrent infection (JW Gen Med Jun 8 2010 and JW Gen Med Oct 24 2006). Other studies have suggested a link between acid suppression and severity of disease.

Researchers reviewed 485 cases of laboratory-confirmed CDI among pediatric and adult patients at a single California medical center and associated outpatient clinics between 2004 and 2008. Of 47 patients with particularly severe CDI infections, 35 experienced complications (including intensive care unit admission), and 23 died. Patients receiving prescription proton-pump inhibitors, histamine-2 blockers, or both had nearly three times the risk for complications, compared…

Reviewing Author

Abigail Zuger, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Abigail Zuger, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose