1
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Karampatakis T, Kandilioti E, Katsifa H, Nikopoulou A, Harmanus C, Tsergouli K, Kuijper E, Kachrimanidou M. Clostridioides difficile infection epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic in Greece. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:1119-1127. [PMID: 38913938 DOI: 10.1080/17460913.2024.2358653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim was to highlight the incidence and epidemiology of C. difficile infections (CDI) in a tertiary Greek hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: A single-center prospective observational cohort study was conducted (October 2021 until April 2022). 125 C. difficile isolates were cultured from hospitalized patients stool samples and screened by PCR for toxin A (tcdA), toxin B (tcdB), binary toxin (cdtA and cdtB) genes and the regulating gene of tcdC.Results: The incidence of CDI increased to 13.1 infections per 10,000 bed days. The most common PCR ribotypes identified included hypervirulent RT027-related RT181 (73.6%), presumably hypervirulent RT126 (8.0%) and toxin A negative RT017 (7.2%).Conclusion: Although the incidence of CDI increased significantly, the CDI epidemiology remained stable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eleni Kandilioti
- Microbiology Department, Papanikolaou General Hospital, 570 10, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Helen Katsifa
- Microbiology Department, Papanikolaou General Hospital, 570 10, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Nikopoulou
- Infectious Disease Unit, Papanikolaou General Hospital, 570 10, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Celine Harmanus
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, European Study Group of C. difficile (ESGCD), 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Katerina Tsergouli
- Microbiology Department, Agios Pavlos General Hospital, 551 34, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ed Kuijper
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Center of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, European Study Group of C. difficile (ESGCD), 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Melina Kachrimanidou
- Department of Microbiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, 541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
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2
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Chioti VT, McWhorter KL, Blue TC, Li Y, Xu F, Jeffrey PD, Davis KM, Seyedsayamdost MR. Potent and specific antibiotic combination therapy against Clostridioides difficile. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:924-933. [PMID: 38942968 PMCID: PMC11306116 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01651-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Keratinicyclins and keratinimicins are recently discovered glycopeptide antibiotics. Keratinimicins show broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive bacteria, while keratinicyclins form a new chemotype by virtue of an unusual oxazolidinone moiety and exhibit specific antibiosis against Clostridioides difficile. Here we report the mechanism of action of keratinicyclin B (KCB). We find that steric constraints preclude KCB from binding peptidoglycan termini. Instead, KCB inhibits C. difficile growth by binding wall teichoic acids (WTAs) and interfering with cell wall remodeling. A computational model, guided by biochemical studies, provides an image of the interaction of KCB with C. difficile WTAs and shows that the same H-bonding framework used by glycopeptide antibiotics to bind peptidoglycan termini is used by KCB for interacting with WTAs. Analysis of KCB in combination with vancomycin (VAN) shows highly synergistic and specific antimicrobial activity, and that nanomolar combinations of the two drugs are sufficient for complete growth inhibition of C. difficile, while leaving common commensal strains unaffected.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tamra C Blue
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yuchen Li
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Fei Xu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Department of Gastroenterology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Philip D Jeffrey
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | | | - Mohammad R Seyedsayamdost
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
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3
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Buratta S, Urbanelli L, Pellegrino RM, Alabed HBR, Latella R, Cerrotti G, Emiliani C, Bassotti G, Spaterna A, Marconi P, Fettucciari K. PhosphoLipidome Alteration Induced by Clostridioides difficile Toxin B in Enteric Glial Cells. Cells 2024; 13:1103. [PMID: 38994956 PMCID: PMC11240607 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is responsible for a spectrum of nosocomial/antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal diseases that are increasing in global incidence and mortality rates. The C. difficile pathogenesis is due to toxin A and B (TcdA/TcdB), both causing cytopathic and cytotoxic effects and inflammation. Recently, we demonstrated that TcdB induces cytopathic and cytotoxic (apoptosis and necrosis) effects in enteric glial cells (EGCs) in a dose/time-dependent manner and described the underlying signaling. Despite the role played by lipids in host processes activated by pathogens, to counter infection and/or induce cell death, to date no studies have investigated lipid changes induced by TcdB/TcdA. Here, we evaluated the modification of lipid composition in our in vitro model of TcdB infection. Apoptosis, cell cycle, cell viability, and lipidomic profiles were evaluated in EGCs treated for 24 h with two concentrations of TcdB (0.1 ng/mL; 10 ng/mL). In EGCs treated with the highest concentration of TcdB, not only an increased content of total lipids was observed, but also lipidome changes, allowing the separation of TcdB-treated cells and controls into different clusters. The statistical analyses also allowed us to ascertain which lipid classes and lipid molecular species determine the clusterization. Changes in lipid species containing inositol as polar head and plasmalogen phosphatidylethanolamine emerged as key indicators of altered lipid metabolism in TcdB-treated EGCs. These results not only provide a picture of the phospholipid profile changes but also give information regarding the lipid metabolism pathways altered by TcdB, and this might represent an important step for developing strategies against C. difficile infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Buratta
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
- Centro di Eccellenza sui Materiali Innovativi Nanostrutturati (CEMIN), University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Lorena Urbanelli
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
- Centro di Eccellenza sui Materiali Innovativi Nanostrutturati (CEMIN), University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto Maria Pellegrino
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
| | - Husam B. R. Alabed
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
| | - Raffaella Latella
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
| | - Giada Cerrotti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
| | - Carla Emiliani
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.B.); (L.U.); (R.M.P.); (H.B.R.A.); (R.L.); (G.C.); (C.E.)
- Centro di Eccellenza sui Materiali Innovativi Nanostrutturati (CEMIN), University of Perugia, Via del Giochetto, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Digestive Endoscopy Section, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
- Santa Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, Gastroenterology & Hepatology Unit, Piazzale Menghini 1, 06129 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62024 Macerata, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Marconi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Katia Fettucciari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
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4
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Buldukoglu OC, Ocal S, Cekin AH. Fecal microbiota transplantation as an early therapeutic option in treatment refractory Clostridioides difficile infection. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 39:1200. [PMID: 38454297 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- O C Buldukoglu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Antalya, Turkey
| | - S Ocal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Antalya, Turkey
| | - A H Cekin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Antalya, Turkey
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5
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Alam MZ, Madan R. Clostridioides difficile Toxins: Host Cell Interactions and Their Role in Disease Pathogenesis. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:241. [PMID: 38922136 PMCID: PMC11209539 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16060241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile, a Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium, is the leading cause of hospital-acquired antibiotic-associated diarrhea worldwide. The severity of C. difficile infection (CDI) varies, ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening conditions such as pseudomembranous colitis and toxic megacolon. Central to the pathogenesis of the infection are toxins produced by C. difficile, with toxin A (TcdA) and toxin B (TcdB) as the main virulence factors. Additionally, some strains produce a third toxin known as C. difficile transferase (CDT). Toxins damage the colonic epithelium, initiating a cascade of cellular events that lead to inflammation, fluid secretion, and further tissue damage within the colon. Mechanistically, the toxins bind to cell surface receptors, internalize, and then inactivate GTPase proteins, disrupting the organization of the cytoskeleton and affecting various Rho-dependent cellular processes. This results in a loss of epithelial barrier functions and the induction of cell death. The third toxin, CDT, however, functions as a binary actin-ADP-ribosylating toxin, causing actin depolymerization and inducing the formation of microtubule-based protrusions. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the interaction between C. difficile toxins and host cells, elucidating the functional consequences of their actions. Furthermore, we will outline how this knowledge forms the basis for developing innovative, toxin-based strategies for treating and preventing CDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Zahidul Alam
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, 600 Moye Boulevard, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Rajat Madan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
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6
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Obaid NA. Alternative treatment of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection in adults by fecal transplantation: an overview of phase I-IV studies from Clinicaltrials.gov. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1374774. [PMID: 38784794 PMCID: PMC11111976 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1374774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an interventional approach to treat chronic and recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). However, there is insufficient evidence regarding its effectiveness and safety. Clinical trials have been conducted to inspect the safety and effectiveness of FMT with and without comparison to pharmacological treatments. Aim This review explored the treatment of CDI in adults using FMT and evaluated the safety of this intervention based on phase I-IV studies registered on Clinicaltrials.gov. Method A comprehensive search of Clinicaltrials.gov was conducted to identify relevant studies that investigated CDI in adults. Data on study type, study design, sample size, intervention details, and outcomes related to FMT were examined and evaluated. Results In total, 13 clinical trials on FMT for CDI published through 17 November 2023 were identified, all of which were interventional studies. The investigation focused on both terminated and completed studies. Basic and advanced outcome measures were examined. Conclusion Some studies were terminated during phase II, and FMT was less effective than antibiotics such as vancomycin and fidaxomicin. However, colonoscopy and oral FMT were explored in several completed studies with promising results, but the evidence remains limited and inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najla A. Obaid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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7
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Fetter K, Weigel M, Ott B, Fritzenwanker M, Stricker S, de Laffolie J, Hain T. The microbiome landscape in pediatric Crohn's disease and therapeutic implications. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2247019. [PMID: 37614093 PMCID: PMC10453987 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2247019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and a pathological immune response in intestinal tissues form the basis of Crohn's disease (CD), which is a debilitating disease with relevant morbidity and mortality. It is increasing in childhood and adolescents, due to western life-style and nutrition and a large set of predisposing genetic factors. Crohn's disease-associated genetic mutations play an essential role in killing pathogens, altering mucosal barrier function, and protecting the host microbiome, suggesting an important pathogenic link. The intestinal microbiome is highly variable and can be influenced by environmental factors. Changes in microbial composition and a reduction in species diversity have been shown to be central features of disease progression and are therefore the target of therapeutic approaches. In this review, we summarize the current literature on the role of the gut microbiome in childhood, adolescent, and adult CD, current therapeutic options, and their impact on the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Fetter
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Markus Weigel
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Ott
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Moritz Fritzenwanker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Stricker
- Department of Pediatrics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan de Laffolie
- Department of Pediatrics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Torsten Hain
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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8
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Barbachyn MR. Identification of a 1,2,4-Oxadiazole with Potent and Specific Activity against Clostridioides difficile, the Causative Bacterium of C. difficile Infection, an Urgent Public Health Threat. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13888-13890. [PMID: 37823241 PMCID: PMC10614189 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of compound 57, a new, totally synthetic 1,2,4-oxadiazole antibacterial agent, is described. This oxadiazole displays highly selective, bactericidal killing of Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile, the bacterium that causes C. difficile infection (CDI) in both hospital and community settings. The narrow spectrum of activity exhibited by 57 should avoid any disruption of commensal anaerobic bacteria in the gut microbiome, minimizing chances for recurrent CDI.
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9
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Fettucciari K, Dini F, Marconi P, Bassotti G. Role of the Alteration in Calcium Homeostasis in Cell Death Induced by Clostridioides difficile Toxin A and Toxin B. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1117. [PMID: 37627001 PMCID: PMC10452684 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), responsible for 15-25% of gastrointestinal infections, causes health problems mainly due to the toxic activity of toxins A and B (Tcds). These are responsible for its clinical manifestations, including diarrhea, pseudomembranous colitis, toxic megacolon and death, with a mortality of 5-30% in primary infection, that increase following relapses. Studies on Tcd-induced cell death have highlighted a key role of caspases, calpains, and cathepsins, with involvement of mitochondria and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a complex signaling pathway network. The complex response in the execution of various types of cell death (apoptosis, necrosis, pyroptosis and pyknosis) depends on the amount of Tcd, cell types, and Tcd receptors involved, and could have as initial/precocious event the alterations in calcium homeostasis. The entities, peculiarities and cell types involved in these alterations will decide the signaling pathways activated and cell death type. Calcium homeostasis alterations can be caused by calcium influx through calcium channel activation, transient intracellular calcium oscillations, and leakage of calcium from intracellular stores. These increases in cytoplasmic calcium have important effects on all calcium-regulated molecules, which may play a direct role in several cell death types and/or activate other cell death effectors, such as caspases, calpains, ROS and proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members. Furthermore, some support for the possible role of the calcium homeostasis alteration in Tcd-induced cell death originates from the similarity with cytotoxic effects that cause pore-forming toxins, based mainly on calcium influx through plasma membrane pores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Fettucciari
- Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Dini
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62024 Matelica, Italy;
| | - Pierfrancesco Marconi
- Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Digestive Endoscopy Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Unit, Santa Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, 06129 Perugia, Italy
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10
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Markovska R, Dimitrov G, Gergova R, Boyanova L. Clostridioides difficile, a New “Superbug”. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040845. [PMID: 37110267 PMCID: PMC10140992 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is a Gram-positive, spore-forming, anaerobic bacterium. The clinical features of C. difficile infections (CDIs) can vary, ranging from the asymptomatic carriage and mild self-limiting diarrhoea to severe and sometimes fatal pseudomembranous colitis. C. difficile infections (CDIs) are associated with disruption of the gut microbiota caused by antimicrobial agents. The infections are predominantly hospital-acquired, but in the last decades, the CDI patterns have changed. Their prevalence increased, and the proportion of community-acquired CDIs has also increased. This can be associated with the appearance of hypervirulent epidemic isolates of ribotype 027. The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated antibiotic overuse could additionally change the patterns of infections. Treatment of CDIs is a challenge, with only three appropriate antibiotics for use. The wide distribution of C. difficile spores in hospital environments, chronic persistence in some individuals, especially children, and the recent detection of C. difficile in domestic pets can furthermore worsen the situation. “Superbugs” are microorganisms that are both highly virulent and resistant to antibiotics. The aim of this review article is to characterise C. difficile as a new member of the “superbug” family. Due to its worldwide spread, the lack of many treatment options and the high rates of both recurrence and mortality, C. difficile has emerged as a major concern for the healthcare system.
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11
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High Prevalence of Clostridioides difficile Ribotype 176 in the University Hospital in Kosice. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030430. [PMID: 36986352 PMCID: PMC10055383 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, caused by antibiotics, plays a key role in the establishment of Clostridioides difficile CD). Toxin-producing strains are involved in the pathogenesis of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), one of the most common hospital-acquired infections. We cultured a total of 84 C. difficile isolates from stool samples of patients hospitalized at Louis Pasteur University Hospital in Kosice, Slovakia, that were suspected of CDI and further characterized by molecular methods. The presence of genes encoding toxin A, toxin B, and binary toxin was assessed by toxin-specific PCR. CD ribotypes were detected using capillary-based electrophoresis ribotyping. A total of 96.4% of CD isolates carried genes encoding toxins A and B, and 54.8% of them were positive for the binary toxin. PCR ribotyping showed the presence of three major ribotypes: RT 176 (n = 40, 47.6%); RT 001 (n = 23, 27.4%); and RT 014 (n = 7, 8.3%). Ribotype 176 predominated among clinical CD isolates in our hospital. The proportion of RT 176 and RT 001 in four hospital departments with the highest incidence of CDI cases was very specific, pointing to local CDI outbreaks. Based on our data, previous use of antibiotics represents a significant risk factor for the development of CDI in patients over 65 years of age.
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12
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Kharga K, Kumar L, Patel SKS. Recent Advances in Monoclonal Antibody-Based Approaches in the Management of Bacterial Sepsis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030765. [PMID: 36979744 PMCID: PMC10045367 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by an uncontrolled inflammatory response to an infectious agent and its antigens. Immune cell activation against the antigens causes severe distress that mediates a strong inflammatory response in vital organs. Sepsis is responsible for a high rate of morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed patients. Monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based therapeutic strategies are now being explored as a viable therapy option for severe sepsis and septic shock. Monoclonal antibodies may provide benefits through two major strategies: (a) monoclonal antibodies targeting the pathogen and its components, and (b) mAbs targeting inflammatory signaling may directly suppress the production of inflammatory mediators. The major focus of mAb therapies has been bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide), although other surface antigens are also being investigated for mAb therapy. Several promising candidates for mAbs are undergoing clinical trials at present. Despite several failures and the investigation of novel targets, mAb therapy provides a glimmer of hope for the treatment of severe bacterial sepsis and septic shock. In this review, mAb candidates, their efficacy against controlling infection, with special emphasis on potential roadblocks, and prospects are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kusum Kharga
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Lokender Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Raj Khosla Centre for Cancer Research, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (S.K.S.P.)
| | - Sanjay Kumar Singh Patel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (S.K.S.P.)
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13
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Hocking L, Ianiro G, Leong RW, Iqbal T, Kao D, Cabling M, Stockwell S, Romanelli RJ, Marjanovic S. Faecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent C. difficile infections: challenges and improvement opportunities for clinical practice and healthcare systems. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:549-564. [PMID: 36495561 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing interest in faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a treatment for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), but evidence on the diverse requirements for safe, effective and accessible services is fragmented and limited. AIMS To identify key components of FMT provision relating to the patient care pathway, stool donor pathway and wider healthcare system, and to explore variation in practice METHODS: We conducted a narrative review of the literature and consultations with key clinical experts in the field. Evidence is drawn from high-income country contexts, with an emphasis on Australia, Canada, Italy and the United Kingdom as case example countries. RESULTS We identify and discuss key challenges to do with healthcare capacity (workforce, FMT and stool banking facilities), donors and donations, patient access and choice of FMT delivery routes, regulation, costs and reimbursement. We also identify improvement opportunities to increase awareness of FMT and referral processes, physician training, maintaining patient registries and outcome monitoring metrics, in-country regulatory harmonisation and tackling reimbursement challenges and discuss future research needs. CONCLUSION Effectively bringing FMT to patients in a healthcare system requires much more than just the existence of a clinically effective procedure. With FMT being a potentially effective treatment option for recurrent CDI for many patients, a well-rounded understanding of how appropriate FMT capacity can be built and nurtured is important for both healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gianluca Ianiro
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS and Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Rupert W Leong
- Macquarie University Hospital and Concord Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Dina Kao
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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14
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Csukovich G, Kramer N, Pratscher B, Gotic I, Freund P, Hahn R, Himmler G, Brandt S, Burgener IA. Neutralising Effects of Different Antibodies on Clostridioides difficile Toxins TcdA and TcdB in a Translational Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043867. [PMID: 36835278 PMCID: PMC9962434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the high prevalence of intestinal disease in humans and animals, there is a strong need for clinically relevant models recapitulating gastrointestinal systems, ideally replacing in vivo models in accordance with the principles of the 3R. We established a canine organoid system and analysed the neutralising effects of recombinant versus natural antibodies on Clostridioides difficile toxins A and B in this in vitro system. Sulforhodamine B cytotoxicity assays in 2D and FITC-dextran barrier integrity assays on basal-out and apical-out organoids revealed that recombinant, but not natural antibodies, effectively neutralised C. difficile toxins. Our findings emphasise that canine intestinal organoids can be used to test different components and suggest that they can be further refined to also mirror complex interactions between the intestinal epithelium and other cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Csukovich
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Nina Kramer
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Pratscher
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Patricia Freund
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rainer Hahn
- Department for Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Sabine Brandt
- Research Group Oncology (RGO), Clinical Unit of Equine Surgery, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Iwan Anton Burgener
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence:
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15
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Hocking L, Wilcox M, Petrosillo N, Griffin P, Steiner T, Attara G, Doré J, Cabling M, Stockwell S, Romanelli RJ, Marjanovic S. Improving care for patients with Clostridioides difficile infection: A clinical practice and healthcare systems perspective. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1033417. [PMID: 36714122 PMCID: PMC9877614 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1033417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Arriving at a C. difficile infection (CDI) diagnosis, treating patients and dealing with recurrences is not straightforward, but a comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of what is needed to improve patient care is lacking. This manuscript addresses the paucity of multidisciplinary perspectives that consider clinical practice related and healthcare system-related challenges to optimizing care delivery. Methods We draw on narrative review, consultations with clinical experts and patient representatives, and a survey of 95 clinical and microbiology experts from the UK, France, Italy, Australia and Canada, adding novel multi-method evidence to the knowledge base. Results and discussion We examine the patient pathway and variations in clinical practice and identify, synthesize insights on and discuss associated challenges. Examples of key challenges include the need to conduct multiple tests for a conclusive diagnosis, treatment side-effects, the cost of some antibiotics and barriers to access of fecal microbiota transplantation, difficulties in distinguishing recurrence from new infection, workforce capacity constraints to effective monitoring of patients on treatment and of recurrence, and ascertaining whether a patient has been cured. We also identify key opportunities and priorities for improving patient care that target both clinical practice and the wider healthcare system. While there is some variety across surveyed countries' healthcare systems, there is also strong agreement on some priorities. Key improvement actions seen as priorities by at least half of survey respondents in at least three of the five surveyed countries include: developing innovative products for both preventing (Canada, Australia, UK, Italy, and France) and treating (Canada, Australia, and Italy) recurrences; facilitating more multidisciplinary patient care (UK, Australia, and France); updating diagnosis and treatment guidelines (Australia, Canada, and UK); and educating and supporting professionals in primary care (Italy, UK, Canada, and Australia) and those in secondary care who are not CDI experts (Italy, Australia, and France) on identifying symptoms and managing patients. Finally, we discuss key evidence gaps for a future research agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Wilcox
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Petrosillo
- Policlinico Universitario, Bio-Medico Campus University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paul Griffin
- Mater Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Theodore Steiner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gail Attara
- Canadian Society of Intestinal Research, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Gastrointestinal Society, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joel Doré
- INRAE, MetaGenoPolis, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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16
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Herzog MKM, Cazzaniga M, Peters A, Shayya N, Beldi L, Hapfelmeier S, Heimesaat MM, Bereswill S, Frankel G, Gahan CG, Hardt WD. Mouse models for bacterial enteropathogen infections: insights into the role of colonization resistance. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2172667. [PMID: 36794831 PMCID: PMC9980611 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2172667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, enteropathogenic bacteria are a major cause of morbidity and mortality.1-3 Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli, and Listeria are among the top five most commonly reported zoonotic pathogens in the European Union.4 However, not all individuals naturally exposed to enteropathogens go on to develop disease. This protection is attributable to colonization resistance (CR) conferred by the gut microbiota, as well as an array of physical, chemical, and immunological barriers that limit infection. Despite their importance for human health, a detailed understanding of gastrointestinal barriers to infection is lacking, and further research is required to investigate the mechanisms that underpin inter-individual differences in resistance to gastrointestinal infection. Here, we discuss the current mouse models available to study infections by non-typhoidal Salmonella strains, Citrobacter rodentium (as a model for enteropathogenic and enterohemorrhagic E. coli), Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter jejuni. Clostridioides difficile is included as another important cause of enteric disease in which resistance is dependent upon CR. We outline which parameters of human infection are recapitulated in these mouse models, including the impact of CR, disease pathology, disease progression, and mucosal immune response. This will showcase common virulence strategies, highlight mechanistic differences, and help researchers from microbiology, infectiology, microbiome research, and mucosal immunology to select the optimal mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias K.-M. Herzog
- Department of Biology, Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monica Cazzaniga
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Audrey Peters
- Department of Life Sciences, MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nizar Shayya
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Luca Beldi
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Markus M. Heimesaat
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Bereswill
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gad Frankel
- Department of Life Sciences, MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Cormac G.M. Gahan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Wolf-Dietrich Hardt
- Department of Biology, Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Moroz EV, Popkova TV, Moroz AE. Manifestations of the gastrointestinal tract in systemic rheumatic diseases: A narrative review. RHEUMATOLOGY SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.47360/1995-4484-2022-578-586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal disorders are important place among the visceral manifestations of systemic autoimmune and immunoinflammatory rheumatic diseases (RD). Pathology of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine can vary from moderate functional disorders to the development of severe chronic inflammation with metaplasia and dysplasia of the mucous membrane, the formation of multiple erosions, hemorrhages and deep ulcers. Complications of gastrointestinal pathology in RD, such as bleeding, perforations and strictures, can cause death. This review examines the main clinical manifestations, possibilities of diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal lesions in systemic scleroderma, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, systemic vasculitis, Sjogren’s syndrome and disease, as well as systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. V. Moroz
- Main Military Clinical Hospital named after N.N. Burdenko
| | | | - A. E. Moroz
- V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology
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18
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Vignali V, Hines PA, Cruz AG, Ziętek B, Herold R. Health horizons: Future trends and technologies from the European Medicines Agency's horizon scanning collaborations. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1064003. [PMID: 36569125 PMCID: PMC9772004 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1064003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In medicines development, the progress in science and technology is accelerating. Awareness of these developments and their associated challenges and opportunities is essential for medicines regulators and others to translate them into benefits for society. In this context, the European Medicines Agency uses horizon scanning to shine a light on early signals of relevant innovation and technological trends with impact on medicinal products. This article provides the results of systematic horizon scanning exercises conducted by the Agency, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre's (DG JRC). These collaborative exercises aim to inform policy-makers of new trends and increase preparedness in responding to them. A subset of 25 technological trends, divided into three clusters were selected and reviewed from the perspective of medicines regulators. For each of these trends, the expected impact and challenges for their adoption are discussed, along with recommendations for developers, regulators and policy makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Vignali
- European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Biomedical Engineering, W.J. Kolff Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Philip A. Hines
- European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Faculty of Health Medicines and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Philip A. Hines,
| | | | | | - Ralf Herold
- European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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19
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Monma T, Iwamoto J, Ueda H, Tamamushi M, Kakizaki F, Konishi N, Yara S, Miyazaki T, Hirayama T, Ikegami T, Honda A. Evaluation of gut dysbiosis using serum and fecal bile acid profiles. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:12484-12493. [PMID: 36579096 PMCID: PMC9791502 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i34.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysbiosis in the intestinal microflora can affect the gut production of microbial metabolites, and toxic substances can disrupt the barrier function of the intestinal wall, leading to the development of various diseases. Decreased levels of Clostridium subcluster XIVa (XIVa) are associated with the intestinal dysbiosis found in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Since XIVa is a bacterial group responsible for the conversion of primary bile acids (BAs) to secondary BAs, the proportion of intestinal XIVa can be predicted by determining the ratio of deoxycholic acid (DCA)/[DCA + cholic acid (CA)] in feces orserum. For example, serum DCA/(DCA+CA) was significantly lower in IBD patients than in healthy controls, even in the remission period. These results suggest that a low proportion of intestinal XIVa in IBD patients might be a precondition for IBD onset but not a consequence of intestinal inflammation. Another report showed that a reduced serum DCA/(DCA + CA) ratio could predict susceptibility to CDI. Thus, the BA profile, particularly the ratio of secondary to primary BAs, can serve as a surrogate marker of the intestinal dysbiosis caused by decreased XIVa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadakuni Monma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Junichi Iwamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Hajime Ueda
- Joint Research Center, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Makoto Tamamushi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Fumio Kakizaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Naoki Konishi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Shoichiro Yara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Teruo Miyazaki
- Joint Research Center, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hirayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Tadashi Ikegami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
| | - Akira Honda
- Joint Research Center, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Inashiki-Gun 300-0395, Japan
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20
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Gangadhar M, Kottapalli A, Kottapalli V. A Novel Treatment Approach to Treatment-Resistant, Recurrent Clostridium difficile. Case Rep Gastroenterol 2022; 16:646-651. [PMID: 36605728 PMCID: PMC9808310 DOI: 10.1159/000527854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A 36-year-old male with a previous medical history of persistent Clostridium difficile presented to clinic for evaluation of diarrheal symptoms intermittently for the last 2 years. He reported recurrent episodes of C. difficile that initially began after prophylactic antibiotic use prior to a tooth extraction. He underwent 12 unsuccessful treatment trials at a nearby clinic with courses of vancomycin, metronidazole, and fidaxomicin. His chronic diarrhea had caused him to endure significant lifestyle alterations over the years. After multiple episodes of incomplete bacterial clearance, he was referred to a university-based tertiary care facility but instead opted for care at a nearby clinic. Upon work-up, his serology was again positive for C. difficile, and he was initiated on a 14-day course of fidaxomicin 200 mg p.o. BID, along with yogurt and probiotic supplementation. Despite fidaxomicin treatment, subsequent serological PCR testing for C. difficile remained positive, consistent with CT abdomen and pelvis findings suspicious for enteritis. His recurrent resistance to standard therapy protocols inspired an unconventional treatment approach: another 14-day course of fidaxomicin 200 mg p.o. BID, followed by fidaxomicin 200 mg p.o. each morning and cholestyramine 4 g p.o. each evening for another 2 weeks, concluded by fecal microbial transplant. Two weeks following this antibiotic regimen and fecal transplant, serology was negative for C. difficile. Subsequent follow-up revealed no evidence of recurrence.
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21
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Yang L, Li W, Zhang X, Tian J, Ma X, Han L, Wei H, Meng W. The evaluation of different types fecal bacteria products for the treatment of recurrent Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Surg 2022; 9:927970. [DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.927970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeTo determine the efficacy of different types of fecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of recurrent clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (RCDAD).MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China Biomedical Medicine (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and WanFang database. We also tracked the references found in systematic reviews of RCDAD treated with fecal microbiota transplantation. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different types of fecal microbiota transplantation with other methods for the treatment of RCDAD. The search period was from the date of inception of this treatment method to January 16, 2022. Two reviewers independently screened the published literature, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias. Systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted using RevMan 5.4, Stata 16.0 and R 4.1.2 software.ResultsTen RCTs involving 765 patients were included in this network meta-analysis. The results showed that treatment with fresh fecal bacteria and frozen fecal bacteria were better than vancomycin, fresh vs. vancomycin [odds ratio, (OR) = 8.98, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) (1.84, 43.92)], frozen vs. vancomycin [OR = 7.44, 95% CI (1.39, 39.75)]. However, there were no statistically significant differences in cure rate [fresh vs. frozen: OR = 1.21, 95% CI (0.22, 6.77); fresh vs. lyophilized, OR = 1.95, 95% CI (0.20, 19.44); frozen vs. lyophilized, OR = 1.62, 95% CI (0.30, 8.85)]. The Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) indicated that fresh fecal bacteria were the best treatment for RCDAD.ConclusionsFresh fecal bacteria are the best treatment of RCDAD, frozen fecal bacteria and lyophilized fecal bacteria can achieve the same effect. Fecal microbiota transplantation is worthy of clinical and commercial application.
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22
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Evaluation of the Risk of Clostridium difficile Infection Using a Serum Bile Acid Profile. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12040331. [PMID: 35448518 PMCID: PMC9032545 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12040331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Since intestinal secondary bile acids (BAs) prevent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), the serum BA profile may be a convenient biomarker for CDI susceptibility in human subjects. To verify this hypothesis, we investigated blood samples from 71 patients of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the time of admission (prior to antibiotic use and CDI onset). Twelve patients developed CDI during hospitalization, and the other 59 patients did not. The serum unconjugated deoxycholic acid (DCA)/[DCA + unconjugated cholic acid (CA)] ratio on admission was significantly lower in patients who developed CDI than in patients who did not develop CDI (p < 0.01) and in 46 healthy controls (p < 0.0001). Another unconjugated secondary BA ratio, 3β-hydroxy (3βOH)-BAs/(3βOH + 3αOH-BAs), was also significantly lower in patients who developed CDI than in healthy controls (p < 0.05) but was not significantly different between patients who developed and patients who did not develop CDI. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve determined a cut-off point of DCA/(DCA + CA) < 0.349 that optimally discriminated on admission the high-risk patients who would develop CDI (sensitivity 91.7% and specificity 64.4%). In conclusion, a decreased serum DCA/(DCA + CA) ratio on admission strongly correlated with CDI onset during hospitalization in patients with gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases. Serum BA composition could be a helpful biomarker for predicting susceptibility to CDI.
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23
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Jachowicz E, Pac A, Różańska A, Gryglewska B, Wojkowska-Mach J. Post-Discharge Clostridioides difficile Infection after Arthroplasties in Poland, Infection Prevention and Control as the Key Element of Prevention of C. difficile Infections. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063155. [PMID: 35328843 PMCID: PMC8949811 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is still one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired infectious diarrhea (CDI), and the incidence of CDI is one of the indicators that allows conclusions to be derived on the correctness of antibiotic administration. The objective of this observational study was the analysis of post-discharge CDI incidence in patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty, in order to specify optimum conditions for the surgical procedures and outpatient postoperative care. One-year observational study. Public Polish hospitals. Retrospective records for 83,525 surgery patients having undergone hip or knee arthroplasty were extracted from the Polish National Health Fund databases. CDI and/or antibiotic prescriptions in the 30 day post-surgery period were expressed per 1000 surgeries with antibiotic prescription on discharge or in ambulatory care, respectively. The CDI incidence rate was 34.4 per 10,000 patients, and 7.7 cases per 100,000 post-surgery patient-days. Patients who were prescribed at least one antibiotic were diagnosed with CDI more often than patients who had no antibiotic treatment (55.0/1000 patients vs. 1.8/1000 patients). In the multifactorial analysis, the following factors were significant: being at least 65 years of age, trauma as the cause of surgery, length of stay over 7 days, HAIs other than CDI and taking beta-lactams and/or quinolones but not macrolides in the post-discharge period. Postoperative antibiotic prescription in patients undergoing joint replacement surgery is the main risk factor for CDI. These observations indicate the necessity of improvement of infection control programs as the key factor for CDI prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estera Jachowicz
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 31-121 Krakow, Poland; (E.J.); (A.R.)
| | - Agnieszka Pac
- Department of Epidemiology, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 31-034 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Anna Różańska
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 31-121 Krakow, Poland; (E.J.); (A.R.)
| | - Barbara Gryglewska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gerontology, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 31-501 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Jadwiga Wojkowska-Mach
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 31-121 Krakow, Poland; (E.J.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence:
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24
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Nibbering B, Gerding DN, Kuijper EJ, Zwittink RD, Smits WK. Host Immune Responses to Clostridioides difficile: Toxins and Beyond. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:804949. [PMID: 34992590 PMCID: PMC8724541 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.804949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is often resistant to the actions of antibiotics to treat other bacterial infections and the resulting C. difficile infection (CDI) is among the leading causes of nosocomial infectious diarrhea worldwide. The primary virulence mechanism contributing to CDI is the production of toxins. Treatment failures and recurrence of CDI have urged the medical community to search for novel treatment options. Strains that do not produce toxins, so called non-toxigenic C. difficile, have been known to colonize the colon and protect the host against CDI. In this review, a comprehensive description and comparison of the immune responses to toxigenic C. difficile and non-toxigenic adherence, and colonization factors, here called non-toxin proteins, is provided. This revealed a number of similarities between the host immune responses to toxigenic C. difficile and non-toxin proteins, such as the influx of granulocytes and the type of T-cell response. Differences may reflect genuine variation between the responses to toxigenic or non-toxigenic C. difficile or gaps in the current knowledge with respect to the immune response toward non-toxigenic C. difficile. Toxin-based and non-toxin-based immunization studies have been evaluated to further explore the role of B cells and reveal that plasma cells are important in protection against CDI. Since the success of toxin-based interventions in humans to date is limited, it is vital that future research will focus on the immune responses to non-toxin proteins and in particular non-toxigenic strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Nibbering
- Center for Microbiome Analyses and Therapeutics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dale N Gerding
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, United States
| | - Ed J Kuijper
- Center for Microbiome Analyses and Therapeutics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Romy D Zwittink
- Center for Microbiome Analyses and Therapeutics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Wiep Klaas Smits
- Center for Microbiome Analyses and Therapeutics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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25
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Gruber P, Hoppe V, Grochowska E, Paleczny J, Junka A, Smolina I, Kurzynowski T. Material Extrusion-Based Additive Manufacturing of Poly(Lactic Acid) Antibacterial Filaments-A Case Study of Antimicrobial Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:4337. [PMID: 34960888 PMCID: PMC8704716 DOI: 10.3390/polym13244337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the era of the coronavirus pandemic, one of the most demanding areas was the supply of healthcare systems in essential Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), including face-shields and hands-free door openers. This need, impossible to fill by traditional manufacturing methods, was met by implementing of such emerging technologies as additive manufacturing (AM/3D printing). In this article, Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) filaments for Fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology in the context of the antibacterial properties of finished products were analyzed. The methodology included 2D radiography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis to determine the presence of antimicrobial additives in the material and their impact on such hospital pathogens as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Clostridium difficile. The results show that not all tested materials displayed the expected antimicrobial properties after processing in FFF technology. The results showed that in the case of specific species of bacteria, the FFF samples, produced using the declared antibacterial materials, may even stimulate the microbial growth. The novelty of the results relies on methodological approach exceeding scope of ISO 22196 standard and is based on tests with three different species of bacteria in two types of media simulating common body fluids that can be found on frequently touched, nosocomial surfaces. The data presented in this article is of pivotal meaning taking under consideration the increasing interest in application of such products in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Gruber
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (CAMT-FPC), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (E.G.); (I.S.); (T.K.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Viktoria Hoppe
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (CAMT-FPC), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (E.G.); (I.S.); (T.K.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Emilia Grochowska
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (CAMT-FPC), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (E.G.); (I.S.); (T.K.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Paleczny
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Parasitology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.P.); (A.J.)
| | - Adam Junka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Parasitology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.P.); (A.J.)
| | - Irina Smolina
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (CAMT-FPC), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (E.G.); (I.S.); (T.K.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kurzynowski
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (CAMT-FPC), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.G.); (E.G.); (I.S.); (T.K.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-371 Wroclaw, Poland
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26
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Fettucciari K, Marconi P, Marchegiani A, Fruganti A, Spaterna A, Bassotti G. Invisible steps for a global endemy: molecular strategies adopted by Clostridioides difficile. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2021; 14:17562848211032797. [PMID: 34413901 PMCID: PMC8369858 DOI: 10.1177/17562848211032797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is on the rise worldwide and is associated with an increase in deaths and socio-health burden. C. difficile has become ubiquitous in anthropized environments because of the extreme resistance of its spores. Based on the epidemiological data and knowledge of molecular pathogenesis of C. difficile, it is possible to predict its progressive colonization of the human population for the following reasons: first, its global spread is unstoppable; second, the toxins (Tcds) produced by C. difficile, TcdA and TcdB, mainly cause cell death by apoptosis, but the surviving cells acquire a senescence state that favours persistence of C. difficile in the intestine; third, proinflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ, induced during CDI, enhance the cytotoxicity of Tcds and can increase the survival of senescent cells; fourth, Tcds block mobility and induce apoptosis in immune cells recruited at the infection site; and finally, after remission from primary infection or relapse, C. difficile causes functional abnormalities in the enteric glial cell (EGC) network that can result in irritable bowel syndrome, characterized by a latent inflammatory response that contributes to C. difficile survival and enhances the cytotoxic activity of low doses of TcdB, thus favouring further relapses. Since a 'global endemy' of C. difficile seems inevitable, it is necessary to develop an effective vaccine against Tcds for at-risk individuals, and to perform a prophylaxis/selective therapy with bacteriophages highly specific for C. difficile. We must be aware that CDI will become a global health problem in the forthcoming years, and we must be prepared to face this menace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Fettucciari
- Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Medical School -Piazza Lucio Severi 1, Edificio B - IV piano; Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, Perugia, 06132, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Marconi
- Biosciences & Medical Embryology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Marchegiani
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Macerata, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fruganti
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Macerata, Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Macerata, Italy
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Digestive Endoscopy Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Unit, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy
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27
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Ma KGL, Lertpiriyapong K, Piersigilli A, Dobtsis I, Wipf JRK, Littmann ER, Leiner I, Pamer EG, Ricart Arbona RJ, Lipman NS. Outbreaks of Typhlocolitis Caused by Hypervirulent Group ST1 Clostridioides difficile in Highly Immunocompromised Strains of Mice. Comp Med 2020; 70:277-290. [PMID: 32404234 PMCID: PMC7287380 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-19-000109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is an enteric pathogen that can cause significant clinical disease in both humans and animals. However, clinical disease arises most commonly after treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. The organism's ability to cause naturally occurring disease in mice is rare, and little is known about its clinical significance in highly immunocompromised mice. We report on 2 outbreaks of diarrhea associated with C. difficile in mice. In outbreak 1, 182 of approximately 2, 400 NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ (NSG) and related strains of mice became clinically ill after cessation of a 14-d course of 0.12% amoxicillin feed to control an increase in clinical signs associated with Corynebacterium bovis infection. Most mice had been engrafted with human tumors; the remainder were experimentally naïve. Affected animals exhibited 1 of 3 clinical syndromes: 1) peracute death; 2) severe diarrhea leading to euthanasia or death; or 3) mild to moderate diarrhea followed by recovery. A given cage could contain both affected and unaffected mice. Outbreak 2 involved a small breeding colony (approximately 50 mice) of NOD. CB17-Prkdcscid/NCrCrl (NOD-scid) mice that had not received antibiotics or experimental manipulations. In both outbreaks, C. difficile was isolated, and toxins A and B were detected in intestinal content or feces. Histopathologic lesions highly suggestive of C. difficile enterotoxemia included fibrinonecrotizing and neutrophilic typhlocolitis with characteristic 'volcano' erosions or pseudomembrane formation. Genomic analysis of 4 isolates (3 from outbreak 1 and 1 from outbreak 2) revealed that these isolates were closely related to a pathogenic human isolate, CD 196. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe naturally occurring outbreaks of C. difficile-associated typhlocolitis with significant morbidity and mortality in highly immunocompromised strains of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen G L Ma
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Kvin Lertpiriyapong
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Alessandra Piersigilli
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Laboratory for Comparative Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Irina Dobtsis
- Laboratory for Comparative Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Juliette R K Wipf
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Laboratory for Comparative Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Eric R Littmann
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ingrid Leiner
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Eric G Pamer
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Rodolfo J Ricart Arbona
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Neil S Lipman
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York;,
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28
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Kounatidis D, Vadiaka M, Kouvidou C, Sampaziotis D, Skourtis A, Panagopoulos F, Konstantinou F, Vallianou NG. Clostridioides difficile infection in a patient with immunoglobulin A vasculitis: a triggering factor or a rare complication of the disease? A case-based review. Rheumatol Int 2020; 40:997-1000. [PMID: 32318801 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04586-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
IgA vasculitis, formerly known as Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP), is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in children and is characterized by inflammation of the small vessels with typical deposition of IgA immune complexes. It is a leukocytoclastic type of vasculitis and is characterized by a tetrad of clinical manifestations: non-thrombocytopenia or coagulopathy-induced palpable purpura, arthritis, or arthralgia, gastrointestinal, and renal involvement. The exact cause of IgA vasculitis is not known yet, although infections, vaccinations and insect bites have been implicated in the appearance of the disease. The main risk factors for Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) are previous CDI, age > 65 years old, pharmacologic agents (antibiotics, PPIs, histamine-2 receptor antagonists, glucocorticoids, and chemotherapy), prior hospitalization, the presence of co-morbidities, especially inflammatory bowel diseases and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and immunosuppression. Oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin are the gold standard of the therapy, with metronidazole being an alternative choice. The purpose of this study was to describe a case of IgA vasculitis and Clostridioides difficile infection to see whether there is any association between the two distinct clinical entities. Herein, we describe a 17-year old patient with IgA vasculitis and bloody diarrhea due to Clostridioides difficile infection and we discuss the co-existence of these two pathological conditions. The patient presented to the hospital with diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and two episodes of bloody diarrhea. Stools tested positive for Clostridioides difficile toxins, while he remained afebrile with hs-CRP = 1.5 mg/dL (normal range < 0.5 mg/dL). Direct immunofluorescence from the extremities' purplish eruption showed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with IgA deposition. Whether co-existence of the two above-mentioned distinct clinical entities is just a co-incidence or CDI is a triggering factor for IgA vasculitis remains to be elucidated in future large-scale studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Vadiaka
- Evangelismos General Hospital, 45-47 Ipsilantou Str, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Natalia G Vallianou
- Evangelismos General Hospital, 45-47 Ipsilantou Str, Athens, Greece.
- Evangelismos General Hospital, 5 Pyramidon Str, 19005, Athens, Greece.
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