Proton Pump Inhibitors and Hospitalization for Clostridium Difficile--Associated Disease: A Population-Based Study

Recurrence of Clostridioides difficile infection and mortality in older inpatients

PURPOSE

The prevalence of Clostridioides difficile infection in older and frail population is extremely high and adverse outcomes, including future recurrences and premature mortality, are common. Nonetheless, the clinical risk profile for Clostridioides difficile recurrence in older people is still controversial. We aimed to investigate: 1) the association between Clostridioides difficile recurrence and 6-month mortality; 2) the risk factors for Clostridioides difficile recurrence after hospital discharge.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study on adults with a first episode of Clostridioides difficile infection admitted to all Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Units of the University Hospital of Ferrara (Italy) between January 2018 and December 2020. For each patient, sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected through hospital database system. The primary and secondary outcomes were mortality and recurrence within 6 months from the first infectious episode, respectively.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 386 enrolled patients was 77.8 years; 61.7% were females. Twelve percent patients had Clostridioides difficile recurrence and 32.1% patients died during the 6-month follow-up. At Cox analysis, after adjustment for the potential confounders, participants with recurrence reported a twofold risk of death compared to those without recurrence (HR, 95% CI 2.45, 1.59-3.78). Compared to patients treated with metronidazole, those treated with vancomycin showed a lower risk of recurrence (log-rank p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Clostridioides difficile recurrence is associated with a higher risk of mortality and it may itself be a marker of frailty and vulnerability. Vancomycin treatment during the infectious episode was associated with lower recurrence rate, as compared to metronidazole.

Clostridium difficile Infection: Risk and Poor Prognostic Factors at a Tertiary Hospital in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

 Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a common cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea. It is associated with significantly higher mortality and morbidity in addition to the cost-effectiveness burden on the healthcare system. The primary risk factors for C. difficile infection (CDI) are past C. difficile exposure, proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotic usage. These risk factors are also associated with poor prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed in Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Tertiary Hospital in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. The aim was to evaluate the risk and prognostic factors of CDI and their association with the outcomes of hospital stay, such as complications, length of stay (LOS), and treatment duration.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study for all patients who tested for C. difficile in the medical department. The target population was all adult patients ≥16 years with positive stool toxins for C. difficile between April 2019 and July 2022. The main outcome measures are risk and poor prognostic factors for CDI.

RESULTS

C. difficle infection patients were included in the study; 12 (52.2%) were female, and 11 (47.8%) were male. The mean age of the patients was 58.3 (SD: 21.5) years; 13 (56.5%) patients were below 65 years, and 10 were above 65 years. Only four patients were without comorbidities, and 19 (82.6%) patients had various comorbidities. Importantly, hypertension was the most common comorbidity in 47.8% of the patients. Furthermore, advanced age significantly impacted the hospital LOS as the mean age among patients who stayed at the hospital less than four days and those who stayed ≥4 days was 49.08 (19.7) and 68.36 (19.5), respectively (P = .028).

CONCLUSION

 Advanced age was the most frequent poor prognostic factor among our inpatient participants with positive CDI. It was significantly associated with longer hospital LOS, more complications, and longer treatment duration.

Clostridioides difficile infection in liver cirrhosis patients: A population-based study in United States

BACKGROUND

Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI) is an increasingly frequent cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Multiple risk factors are documented in the literature that includes, but are not limited to, antibiotics use, advanced age, and gastric acid suppression. Several epidemiological studies have reported an increased incidence of CDI in advanced liver disease patients. Some have also demonstrated a higher prevalence of nosocomial infections in cirrhotic patients.

AIM

To use a large nationwide database, we sought to determine CDI’s risk among liver cirrhosis patients in the United States.

METHODS

We queried a commercial database (Explorys Inc^TM, Cleveland, OH, United States), and obtained an aggregate of electronic health record data from 26 major integrated United States healthcare systems comprising 360 hospitals in the United States from 2018 to 2021. Diagnoses were organized into the Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms (SNOMED–CT) hierarchy. Statistical analysis for the multivariable model was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 25, IBM Corp^TM). For all analyses, a two-sided P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

There were a total of 19387760 patients in the database who were above 20 years of age between the years 2018-2021. Of those, 133400 were diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. The prevalence of CDI amongst the liver cirrhosis population was 134.93 per 100.000 vs 19.06 per 100.000 in non-cirrhotic patients (P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis model uncovered that cirrhotic patients were more likely to develop CDI (OR: 1.857; 95%CI: 1.665-2.113, P < 0.0001) compared to those without any prior history of liver cirrhosis.

CONCLUSION

In this large database study, we uncovered that cirrhotic patients have a significantly higher CDI prevalence than those without cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis may be an independent risk factor for CDI. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify this possible risk association that may lead to the implementation of screening methods in this high-risk population.

Proton-Pump Inhibitor Use and the Risk of Community-Associated Clostridium difficile Infection

Background

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been reported to increase the risk of community-associated Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), but the association remains disputed.

Methods

A nationwide cohort study among adults in Denmark, 2010–2013, linking register data on C. difficile testing, filled prescriptions, and patient characteristics. All incident episodes of community-associated CDI (ie, positive culture, molecular assay, or toxin test in individuals without previous hospitalization in the prior 12 weeks and without a positive test for C. difficile in the prior 8 weeks) were identified in the Danish National Microbiological Database. Self-controlled case-series analyses were used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for community-associated CDI, comparing periods with and without exposure to PPIs. By design, models took fixed confounders such as chronic disease, genetics, and socioeconomic status into account; further, time-varying confounders, including hospital stay and antibiotic and corticosteroid use were adjusted for.

Results

3583 episodes of community-associated CDI were identified, of which 964 occurred during current use of PPIs, 324 occurred 0–6 months after treatment cessation, 123 occurred 6–12 months after treatment cessation, and 2172 occurred during time periods without use of PPIs. The adjusted IRR was 2.03 (95% confidence interval, 1.74–2.36), comparing use of PPI with nonuse. The increased risk remained elevated in later time periods: 1.54 (1.31–1.80) for 0–6 months, 1.24 (1.00–1.53) for 6–12 months after current use.

Conclusions

Use of PPIs was associated with moderately increased risk of community-associated CDI. The risk remained elevated up to 1 year after PPI treatment had ended.

Evidence-based application of explicit criteria to assess the appropriateness of geriatric prescriptions at admission and hospital stay

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate prescribing in the elderly is a critical issue in primary care, causing a higher risk of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) and resulting in major patient safety concerns. At international level, many tools have been developed to identify Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was the application of Beers, Screening Tool of Older People's Prescriptions (STOPP)/Screening Tool to Alert to Right Treatment (START) and Improving Prescribing in the Elderly Tool (IPET) criteria as key tool to improve the quality of prescribing.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted using the aforementioned criteria. Two different cohorts of elderly patients were enrolled between January 2015 and December 2016, 1800 at admission and 1466 at hospital stay. The index of each criterion divided by politherapy were correlated with comorbidities (Pearson correlation). A comparison was made between admission and hospital stay through a Student's t test of the average of the index.

RESULTS

The Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) were the most prescribed PIMs according Beers criteria in both patient cohorts (56%). The most detected drug-drug and drug-disease interactions at admission and at hospital stay were 3 or more drugs active on the Central Nervous System (CNS) as they can predispose to fall-risk. The most detected PIMs with STOPP criteria at admission were PPIs administered for more than 8 weeks. Inhaled β2-agonists or antimuscarinics were the most prescribed Potential Prescription Omissions (PPOs) according to START criteria. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with high blood pressure were the most detected PIMs according to IPET criteria during hospital stay. A significant correlation between the comorbidities and the all index at hospital stay, while at admission there was no significant correlation for Beers and IPET index.

CONCLUSION

The prescriptive criteria were a useful tool for assessing the quality of prescriptions in the geriatric population and identifying their critical issues.

Clostridium difficile infection in an academic medical center in Saudi Arabia: prevalence and risk factors

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile infection is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in healthcare facilities. More studies are needed to identify patients at high risk of C difficile infection in our community.

OBJECTIVES

Estimate the prevalence of C difficile infection among adult patients and evaluate the risk factors associated with infection.

DESIGN

Retrospective record review.

SETTING

Tertiary academic medical center in Jeddah.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients were adults (≥18 years old) with confirmed C difficile diagnosis between January 2013 and May 2018.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Prevalence rate and types of risk factors.

SAMPLE SIZE

Of 1886 records, 129 patients had positive lab results and met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The prevalence of C difficile infection in our center over five years was 6.8%. The mean (SD) age was 56 (18) years, and infection was more prevalent in men (53.5%) than in women (46.5%). The most common risk factors were use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) and broad-spectrum antibiotics. The overlapping exposure of both PPIs and broad-spectrum antibiotics was 56.6%. There was no statistically significant difference between the type of PPI (P=.254) or antibiotic (P=.789) and the onset of C difficile infection.

CONCLUSION

The overall C difficile infection prevalence in our population was low compared to Western countries. The majority of the patients who developed C difficile infection were using PPIs and/or antibiotics. No differences were observed in the type of antibiotic or PPI and the onset of C difficile infection development. Appropriate prescribing protocols for PPIs and antibiotics in acute settings are needed.

LIMITATIONS

Single center and retrospective design.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

Meta-analysis of proton pump inhibitors induced risk of community-acquired pneumonia

Purpose

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), one of the most widely used medications, are commonly used to suppress several acid-related upper gastrointestinal disorders. Acid-suppressing medication use could be associated with increased risk of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), although the results of clinical studies have been conflicting.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane library and Database of Systematic Reviews from the earliest available online year of indexing up to October 2018.

Study selection

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies to evaluate the risk of PPI use on CAP outcomes.

Data extraction

Included study location, design, population, the prevalence of CAP, comparison group and other confounders. We calculated pooled odds ratio (OR) using a random-effects meta-analysis.

Results of data synthesis

Of the 2577 studies screening, 11 papers were included in the systematic review and 7 studies with 65 590 CAP cases were included in the random-effects meta-analysis. In current PPI users, pooled OR for CAP was 1.86 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.30–2.66), and in the case of recent users, OR for CAP was 1.66 (95% CI, 1.22–2.25). In the subgroup analysis of CAP, significance association is also observed in both high-dose and low-dose PPI therapy. When stratified by duration of exposure, 3–6 months PPIs users group was associated with increased risk of developing CAP (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.22–3.45). There was a statistically significant association between the PPI users and the rate of hospitalization (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.83–3.66).

Conclusion

We found possible evidence linking PPI use to an increased risk of CAP. More randomized controlled studies are warranted to clarify an understanding of the association between PPI use and risk of CAP because observational studies cannot clarify whether the observed epidemiologic association is a causal effect or a result of unmeasured/residual confounding.

Clostridium difficile Infection: An Epidemiology Update

Clostridium (reclassified as " Clostridioides ") difficile infection (CDI) is a healthcare-associated infection and significant source of potentially preventable morbidity, recurrence, and death, particularly among hospitalized older adults. Additional risk factors include antibiotic use and severe underlying illness. The increasing prevalence of community-associated CDI is gaining recognition as a novel source of morbidity in previously healthy patients. Even after recovery from initial infection, patients remain at risk for recurrence or reinfection with a new strain. Some pharmaco-epidemiologic studies have suggested an increased risk associated with proton pump inhibitors and protective effect from statins, but these findings have not been uniformly reproduced in all studies. Certain ribotypes of C. difficile , including the BI/NAP1/027, 106, and 018, are associated with increased antibiotic resistance and potential for higher morbidity and mortality. CDI remains a high-morbidity healthcare-associated infection, and better understanding of ribotypes and medication risk factors could help to target treatment, particularly for patients with high recurrence risk.

Long-term clinical safety of clindamycin and rifampicin combination for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa. A Critically Appraised Topic

CLINICAL QUESTION/SCENARIO

Can therapy with clindamycin and rifampicin be safely continued long term beyond the recommended 10-week course?

BACKGROUND

Clindamycin and rifampicin are used in combination to treat hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). There is no data on the efficacy and safety of clindamycin/rifampicin combination therapy for HS beyond 10 weeks.

METHODS

We identified the following major concerns that still lack a proper evidenced-based analysis: for rifampicin, drug-induced liver injury, interstitial nephritis, drug interaction and hepatic p450 3A4 enzyme induction; for clindamycin, the concern was community-acquired Clostridium difficile infection (CA-CDI); and experience with long-term treatment. Data sources were used as appropriate to answer the question. Systematic searches were used to assess the risk of CA-CDI and experience with long-term treatment with clindamycin.

RESULTS/IDENTIFIED EVIDENCE

The risk for rifampicin-induced liver injury is highest in the first 6 weeks of treatment, whereas interstitial nephritis is primarily observed during intermittent treatment. Enzyme induction due to rifampicin is usually complete after about 2 weeks of treatment and reduces clindamycin blood levels by about 90%. Three meta-analyses identified antibiotic use as a risk factor for CA-CDI. Two of them assigned the highest risk to clindamycin. None of them stratified by length of treatment. There is extensive experience with rifampicin, primarily for the treatment of tuberculosis. Long-term experience with clindamycin is limited.

DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATION FOR CLINICAL CARE

The analysed risks associated with a combination of clindamycin and rifampicin for hidradenitis suppurative cluster within the first 10 weeks. Treatment can be continued beyond 10 weeks, if clinically necessary.

The zoonotic potential of Clostridium difficile from small companion animals and their owners

Background

Clostridium difficile infections (CDI) in humans range from asymptomatic carriage to life-threatening intestinal disease. Findings on C. difficile in various animal species and an overlap in ribotypes (RTs) suggest potential zoonotic transmission. However, the impact of animals for human CDI remains unclear.

Methods

In a large-scale survey we collected 1,447 fecal samples to determine the occurrence of C. difficile in small companion animals (dogs and cats) and their owners and to assess potential epidemiological links within the community. The Germany-wide survey was conducted from July 2012-August 2013. PCR ribotyping, Multilocus VNTR Analysis (MLVA) and PCR detection of toxin genes were used to characterize isolated C. difficile strains. A database was defined and logistic regression used to identify putative factors associated with fecal shedding of C. difficile.

Results

In total, 1,418 samples met the inclusion criteria. The isolation rates for small companion animals and their owners within the community were similarly low with 3.0% (25/840) and 2.9% (17/578), respectively. PCR ribotyping revealed eight and twelve different RTs in animals and humans, respectively, whereas three RTs were isolated in both, humans and animals. RT 014/0, a well-known human hospital-associated lineage, was predominantly detected in animal samples. Moreover, the potentially highly pathogenic RTs 027 and 078 were isolated from dogs. Even though, C. difficile did not occur simultaneously in animals and humans sharing the same household. The results of the epidemiological analysis of factors associated with fecal shedding of C. difficile support the hypothesis of a zoonotic potential.

Conclusions

Molecular characterization and epidemiological analysis revealed that the zoonotic risk for C. difficile associated with dogs and cats within the community is low but cannot be excluded.

Acid-Suppressive Therapy and Risk of Infections: Pros and Cons

This narrative review summarises the benefits, risks and appropriate use of acid-suppressing drugs (ASDs), proton pump inhibitors and histamine-2 receptor antagonists, advocating a rationale balanced and individualised approach aimed to minimise any serious adverse consequences. It focuses on current controversies on the potential of ASDs to contribute to infections-bacterial, parasitic, fungal, protozoan and viral, particularly in the elderly, comprehensively and critically discusses the growing body of observational literature linking ASD use to a variety of enteric, respiratory, skin and systemic infectious diseases and complications (Clostridium difficile diarrhoea, pneumonia, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, septicaemia and other). The proposed pathogenic mechanisms of ASD-associated infections (related and unrelated to the inhibition of gastric acid secretion, alterations of the gut microbiome and immunity), and drug-drug interactions are also described. Both probiotics use and correcting vitamin D status may have a significant protective effect decreasing the incidence of ASD-associated infections, especially in the elderly. Despite the limitations of the existing data, the importance of individualised therapy and caution in long-term ASD use considering the balance of benefits and potential harms, factors that may predispose to and actions that may prevent/attenuate adverse effects is evident. A six-step practical algorithm for ASD therapy based on the best available evidence is presented.

Magnitude and direction of the association between Clostridium difficile infection and proton pump inhibitors in adults and pediatric patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a cause of increased morbidity and health care costs among hospitalized patients. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are mainly used for the treatment of acid-related upper gastrointestinal diseases. The aim of the study was to assess the risks associated with initial and recurrent CDI in adult and pediatric patients treated with PPIs.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using PubMed (Medline), Embase, and Web of Science with the following search terms: ("proton pump inhibitor," "PPI," or "acid suppression") AND ("infection," "diarrhea," "diarrhoea," "colitis," or "disease") AND ("Clostridium difficile"). Meta-analysis was performed using Revman5.3 software. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) presented as standard plots with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven eligible studies were selected. PPI use was significantly associated with risk of CDI (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.94-2.82; P < 0.00001). Pooled data from twelve studies demonstrated a significant association between PPI use and recurrent CDI (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.39-2.15; P = 0.02). Subgroup analysis revealed significant associations between PPI use and an increased incidence of CDI among adult (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.89-2.80; P < 0.00001) and pediatric (OR 3.00, 95% CI 1.44-6.23; P < 0.00001) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

PPI use was associated with CDI in adult and pediatric patients, and with recurrent CDI. Although many risk factors are associated with the occurrence and recurrence of CDI, consideration should be given to not administering PPIs at any age if they are unnecessary.

Proton pump inhibitors and risk of Clostridium difficile infection: association or causation?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The rising burden of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) requires urgent identification of preventable risk factors. Observational studies suggest an association between proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use and CDI risk.

RECENT FINDINGS

Key historical literature on PPI and CDI associations is reviewed as a prelude to evaluating the plausibility of a causative association. Impactful literature from the past 18 months is examined in detail and critically appraised through the lens of the Bradford Hill Criteria for determination of causality. The PPI and CDI association has been studied extensively and is valid. Nonetheless, causality is not proven due to extensive and difficult to control confounding in observational studies of CDI patient populations with complex comorbidities.

SUMMARY

In the authors' opinion, systematic discontinuation of PPIs in patients at risk for CDI is not warranted based on current evidence. Well controlled prospective human studies are needed. Careful and repeated consideration should be given to all PPI prescriptions to avoid potential adverse effects.

Proton pump inhibitors therapy and risk of Clostridium difficile infection: Systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) therapy and the risk of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI).

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed and seven other databases through January 1990 to March 2017 for published studies that evaluated the association between PPIs and CDI. Adult case-control and cohort studies providing information on the association between PPI therapy and the development of CDI were included. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random effect. Heterogeneity was assessed by I² test and Cochran’s Q statistic. Potential publication bias was evaluated via funnel plot, and quality of studies by the Newcastle-Otawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS).

RESULTS

Fifty-six studies (40 case-control and 16 cohort) involving 356683 patients met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Both the overall pooled estimates and subgroup analyses showed increased risk for CDI despite substantial statistical heterogeneity among studies. Meta-analysis of all studies combined showed a significant association between PPI users and the risk of CDI (pooled OR = 1.99, CI: 1.73-2.30, P < 0.001) as compared with non-users. The association remained significant in subgroup analyses: by design-case-control (OR = 2.00, CI: 1.68-2.38, P < 0.0001), and cohort (OR = 1.98, CI: 1.51-2.59, P < 0.0001); adjusted (OR = 1.95, CI: 1.67-2.27, P < 0.0001) and unadjusted (OR = 2.02, CI: 1.41-2.91, P < 0.0001); unicenter (OR = 2.18, CI: 1.72-2.75, P < 0.0001) and multicenter (OR = 1.82, CI: 1.51-2.19, P < 0.0001); age ≥ 65 years (OR = 1.93, CI: 1.40-2.68, P < 0.0001) and < 65 years (OR = 2.06, CI: 1.11-3.81, P < 0.01). No significant differences were found in subgroup analyses (test for heterogeneity): P = 0.93 for case-control vs cohort, P = 0.85 for adjusted vs unadjusted, P = 0.24 for unicenter vs multicenter, P = 0.86 for age ≥ 65 years and < 65 years. There was significant heterogeneity across studies (I² = 85.4%, P < 0.001) as well as evidence of publication bias (funnel plot asymmetry test, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis provides further evidence that PPI use is associated with an increased risk for development of CDI. Further high-quality, prospective studies are needed to assess whether this association is causal.

Adverse effects of proton-pump inhibitor use in older adults: a review of the evidence

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a widely prescribed class of medications used to treat acid-related disorders and use has significantly increased over the last few decades. PPIs are often inappropriately prescribed and since they have been on the market, a number of post-marketing studies have been published demonstrating associations between longer duration of PPI therapy and a number of adverse effects that are a concern in older adults. The objective of this review is to discuss the existing literature of potential adverse effects with long-term PPI use in older adults and to summarize the implications in clinical practice. A PubMed search was conducted to identify studies evaluating the potential long-term adverse effects of PPI therapy in older adults, and publications were selected based on relevant criteria. PPIs have been associated with an increased risk of a number of adverse effects including osteoporotic-related fractures, Clostridium difficile infection, community-acquired pneumonia, vitamin B12 deficiency, kidney disease, and dementia, demonstrated by a number of case-control, cohort studies, and meta-analyses. Older adults should be periodically evaluated for the need for continued use of PPI therapy given the number of potential adverse effects associated with long-term use.

Updated meta-analysis of controlled observational studies: proton-pump inhibitors and risk of Clostridium difficile infection

Attention has recently been directed toward a plausible link between Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, the results of studies on the association between CDI and PPI remain controversial. We searched the literature databases from their inception to December 2016, without restriction of language, including all controlled observational studies examining the association between acid-suppressive therapy and CDI. Pooled analysis of 50 studies showed a significant association between PPI use and risk of developing CDI (odds ratio: 1.26; 95% confidence interval: 1.12-1.39) as compared with non-users. When stratified by study patients, the relative risk of hospital-acquired CDI and community-associated CDI were 1.29 (1.14-1.44) and 1.17 (0.74-1.59). After restricting the studies according to hospital department, the relative risks of hospital-acquired CDI in ICUs and general wards were 1.43 (0.74-2.11) and 1.29 (1.13-1.45). By implementing cumulative meta-analysis, it was clear that earlier trials of CDI conducted in the early 2000s demonstrated a high degree of heterogeneity and a high percentage of negative results. Since 2011, the overall association between PPI use and risk of developing CDI has remained relatively stable within an effect size between OR 1.20 and 1.26. Our findings indicate a significant associated risk of incident CDI among PPI users, especially in general ward patients. The totality of evidence, when using cumulative meta-analysis, showed that further trials are unlikely to overturn this positive result. Therefore establishing a guideline for the use of PPIs may help in future with the control of CDI.

Association between omeprazole use and Clostridium difficile infection among hospitalized patients: A case-control study of the Saudi population

Background: While few international studies have assessed the association between omeprazole use and the risk of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), research into this is lacking in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East region. The aim of this study was to determine whether exposure to omeprazole is associated with the risk of Clostridium difficile infection in a sample of hospitalized Saudi patients. Methodology: A retrospective matched case–control study was conducted at the King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 1 August 2010 through 31 July 2015. The analysis included a total of 200 patients: 100 CDI cases and 100 matched controls. Results: The majority (60%, 120 out of 200) of patients had received proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and a minority (18.5%, 37 out of 200) had received omeprazole. The PPI use was insignificantly higher in CDI cases than in controls. However, the use of omeprazole was significantly higher in CDI cases compared with controls. Specifically, patients receiving omeprazole were two times more likely to develop CDI compared with controls (aOR = 2.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.007–4.437)). After adjusting for potential predictors of CDI, watery diarrhea (aOR = 59.1, 95% CI = 19.831–175.974) and abdominal pain (aOR = 7.5, 95% CI = 2.184–25.445) were found to be independent predictors of CDI. Conclusions: The data suggests that PPIs were commonly used in patients admitted to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh: six out of ten patients received PPIs. The findings support a possible association between the use of omeprazole and a high risk of CDI. To confirm causality, the link between omeprazole and CDI should be assessed in a large interventional study.

Risk of Clostridium difficile Infection with the Use of a Proton Pump Inhibitor for Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis in Critically Ill Patients

Background/Aims

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) are commonly prescribed for stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) in critically ill patients. Several studies have suggested that the use of PPIs is a potential risk factor for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). We compared the incidences of CDI in the PPI group and H2RA group for SUP in critically ill patients.

Methods

From August 2005 to July 2012, the incidences of CDI were retrospectively analyzed in patients who were admitted directly to intensive care units and stayed for more than 3 days. SUP-related CDI was defined as a CDI diagnosed during the SUP period. Patient clinical data were analyzed to identify potential risk factors for SUP-related CDI.

Results

Of the 1,005 patients enrolled (444 patients received PPI and 561 received H2RA), 38 (3.8%) were diagnosed with SUP-related CDI. The incidence of SUP-related CDI was considerably higher in patients who received PPI than in those who received H2RA (6.7% vs 1.8%). PPI use for SUP (odds ratio [OR], 3.3; confidence interval [CI], 1.5 to 7.1; p=0.003) and diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.3; CI, 1.2 to 4.7; p=0.019) were independent risk factors for SUP-related CDI.

Conclusions

PPI therapy is associated with a higher risk of SUP-related CDI than H2RA therapy in critically ill patients.

Cumulative and temporal associations between antimicrobial prescribing and community-associated Clostridium difficile infection: population-based case-control study using administrative data

Background

Community-associated Clostridium difficile infection (CA-CDI; defined as cases without prior hospitalization in the previous 12 weeks who were either tested outside of hospital or tested within 2 days of admission to hospital) is a major public health problem. This study estimates the magnitude of the association between temporal and cumulative prescribing of antimicrobials in primary care and CA-CDI.

Methods

Three national patient-level datasets, covering CDI cases, community prescriptions and hospitalizations, were linked by the NHS Scotland unique patient identifier, the Community Health Index (CHI). All validated cases of CDI from August 2010 to July 2013 were extracted and up to six population-based controls were matched to each case from the CHI register for Scotland. Statistical analysis used conditional logistic regression.

Results

The 1446 unique cases of CA-CDI were linked with 7964 age-, sex- and location-matched controls. Cumulative exposure to any antimicrobial in the previous 6 months has a monotonic dose-response association with CA-CDI. Individuals with more than 28 DDDs to any antimicrobial (19.9% of cases) had an OR of 4.4 (95% CI 3.4-5.6) compared with those unexposed. Individuals exposed to 29+ DDDs of high-risk antimicrobials (cephalosporins, clindamycin, co-amoxiclav or fluoroquinolones) had an OR of 17.9 (95% CI 7.6-42.2). Elevated CA-CDI risk following high-risk antimicrobial exposure was greatest in the first month (OR = 12.5, 95% CI 8.9-17.4), but was still present 4-6 months later (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.7-3.9). Cases exposed to 29+ DDDs had prescription patterns more consistent with repeated therapeutic courses, using different antimicrobials, than long-term prophylactic use.

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrated temporal and dose-response associations between CA-CDI risk and antimicrobials, with an impact of exposure to high-risk antimicrobials remaining 4-6 months later.

The risk of Clostridium difficile infection in patients with pernicious anaemia: a retrospective cohort study using primary care database

Background

Studies have found an association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and Clostridium difficile infection. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the mechanism by which PPIs induce an increased risk of C. difficile infection is supported by the same mechanism acting in another cause of achlorhydria, pernicious anaemia.

Methods

Using a database of anonymised primary care records between 1990 and 2013, we selected exposed patients with a diagnosis of pernicious anaemia treated with vitamin B12 therapy. Each exposed patient was matched by age, gender and general practice to up to 10 controls. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for C. difficile infection with pernicious anaemia, adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

We identified 45,467 exposed patients matched to 449,635 controls. The crude incidence rate of C. difficile infection was 1.85/1000 person-years for the exposed cohort and 1.09/1000 person-years for controls. Patients with pernicious anaemia had a greater risk of C. difficile infection than the controls (adjusted HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.40-1.76).

Conclusions

Pernicious anaemia patients have an increased risk of C. difficile infection. This supports the theory that severe achlorhydria is the mechanism that increases the risk of C. difficile infection in long-term PPI users.

Use of antibiotic and prevalence of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in-patients with spinal cord injuries: a UK national spinal injury centre experience

BACKGROUND

This was a retrospective audit, with the aims being to (1) record the use of antibiotics; (2) establish the prevalence of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea (AAD) and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (CDAD); and (3) assess if there was any seasonal variation in antibiotic use and incidence of AAD.

METHODS

The study was performed at a single spinal cord injury (SCI) centre in the UK. Data were collected using a standardised questionnaire during October 2014 to June 2015. We define AAD as two or more watery stools of type 5, 6 or 7 (Bristol stool scale) over 24 h.

RESULTS

Three-hundred-and-nineteen adults (mean age: 55.9 years, 29.2% female) with SCI (58.2% tetraplegia; 43.7% complete SCI) were included. Of 70 (21.9%) patients on antibiotics, the top three indications for antibiotics were urinary-tract infections, infected pressure ulcers and other skin infections. Seventeen of 78 (21.8%) developed AAD and three of 319 (0.94%) developed CDAD. AAD was more common in the summer season than in spring, autumn and winter (47.1%, 10.0%, 10.0%, 23.8%, P=0.025). AAD was associated with older adults greater than 65 years (70.6% vs 23.8%, P=0.007). Polypharmacy and the summer season were identified as independent predictors for AAD.

CONCLUSION

This survey found that AAD is common in SCI patients and may be a risk factor for a poorer outcome and increased hospital costs. A multicentre study is underway to establish the incidence and risk factors for AAD.

Acid-suppression medications and bacterial gastroenteritis: a population-based cohort study

Aims

To investigate whether acid‐suppression medicines (ASMs) increase the risk of bacterial gastroenteritis.

Methods

A population‐based, propensity‐score matched cohort study using a record‐linkage database in Tayside, UK. The study consisted of 188 323 exposed to ASMs (proton‐pump inhibitors and histamine‐2 receptor antagonists) and 376 646 controls (a propensity‐score matched cohort from the rest of population who were not exposed to ASMs) between 1999 and 2013. The main outcome measure was a positive stool test for Clostridiumdifficile, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella or Escherichia coli O157. The association between ASMs and risk of bacterial gastroenteritis was assessed by a Cox regression model.

Results

There were 22 705 positive test results (15 273 C. difficile [toxin positive], 6590 Campylobacter, 852 Salmonella, 129 Shigella and 193 E. coli O157, not mutually exclusive) with a total of 5 729 743 person‐years follow up time in Tayside, 1999–2013. The adjusted hazard ratios for culture positive diarrhoea for the proton‐pump inhibitors and histamine‐2 receptor antagonists exposed vs. unexposed cohort were 2.72 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.33, 3.17) during follow–up time for samples submitted from the community and 1.28 (95% CI 1.08, 1.52) for samples submitted from hospitals. Compared with the unexposed cohort, patients in the exposed group had increased risks of C. difficile and Campylobacter [adjusted hazard ratios of 1.70 (95% CI 1.28, 2.25), 3.71 (95% CI 3.04, 4.53) for community samples, and 1.42 (95% CI 1.17, 1.71), 4.53 (95% CI 1.75, 11.8) for hospital samples, respectively].

Conclusions

The results suggest that community prescribed ASMs were associated with increased rates of C. difficile and Campylobacter positive gastroenteritis in both the community and hospital settings.

Clostridium difficile infection in patients with liver disease: a review

Over the past two decades, there has been a dramatic worldwide increase in both the incidence and severity of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Paralleling the increased incidence of CDI in the general population, there has been increased interest in CDI among patients with liver disease, particularly in those with liver cirrhosis and post liver transplantation. MEDLINE and several other electronic databases from January 1995 to December 2014 were searched in order to identify potentially relevant literature. Patients with cirrhosis and liver transplant recipients are at high risk for the development CDI because of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors use, frequent and prolonged hospitalization, immunosuppressant therapy, and multiple comorbidities. Enzyme immunoassay to detect C. difficile toxins A and B in stool remains the most widely used test for CDI diagnosis, although, more recently, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assays have become the preferred diagnostic test in many laboratories. Metronidazole and vancomycin, given orally, have proved to be effective in the treatment of CDI. Both cirrhotic patients and liver transplant recipients with CDI have longer length of hospital stay, increased mortality, and higher healthcare costs than those without CDI. A rapid diagnosis and adequate therapy of CDI are of paramount importance to improve liver disease patients' outcome. The aim of this review is to provide up-to-date information on the epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, treatment, and outcomes in liver disease patients with CDI.

Impact of a clinical pharmacist stress ulcer prophylaxis management program on inappropriate use in hospitalized patients

PURPOSE

Appropriate utilization of stress ulcer prophylaxis should be limited to high-risk, intensive care unit (ICU) patients. However, inappropriate stress ulcer prophylaxis use among all hospitalized patients remains a concern. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and economic impact of a novel pharmacist-managed stress ulcer prophylaxis program in ICU and general ward patients.

METHODS

This retrospective, pre- and poststudy design was conducted in adult ICU and general ward patients at a large academic medical center between January 1, 2011 and January 31, 2012 to compare the rates of inappropriate stress ulcer prophylaxis before and after the implementation of a pharmacist-led stress ulcer prophylaxis management program.

RESULTS

A total of 1134 unique patients consisting of 16,415 patient days were evaluated. The relative reduction in the rate of inappropriate stress ulcer prophylaxis days after program implementation in ICU and general ward patients was 58.3% and 83.5%, respectively (P < .001). The rates of ICU patients inappropriately continued on stress ulcer prophylaxis upon hospital discharge in the pre- and postimplementation groups were 29.9% and 3.6%, respectively (P < .001), whereas general ward patients significantly decreased from 36.2% to 5.4% in the pre- and postimplementation groups, respectively (P < .001). Total inpatient costs associated with all stress ulcer prophylaxis administered was $20,052.70 in the pre- and $3280.49 in the postimplementation group (P < .001), resulting in an estimated cost savings of > $200,000 annually. No differences in clinical outcomes were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of a pharmacist-managed stress ulcer prophylaxis program was associated with a decrease in inappropriate acid suppression rates during hospitalization and upon discharge, as well as significant cost savings.

The association of hospital prevention processes and patient risk factors with the risk of Clostridium difficile infection: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile is the most common cause of healthcare-acquired infection; the real-world impacts of some proposed C. difficile prevention processes are unknown.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of all patients admitted to acute care hospitals between April 2011 and March 2012 in Ontario, Canada. Hospital prevention practices were determined by survey of infection control programmes; responses were linked to patient-level risk factors and C. difficile outcomes in Ontario administrative databases. Multivariable generalised estimating equation (GEE) regression models were used to assess the impact of selected understudied hospital prevention processes on the patient-level risk of C. difficile infection, accounting for patient risk factors, baseline C. difficile rates and structural hospital characteristics.

RESULTS

C. difficile infections complicated 2341 of 653 896 admissions (3.6 per 1000 admissions). Implementation of the selected C. difficile prevention practices was variable across the 159 hospitals with isolation of all patients at onset of diarrhoea reported by 43 (27%), auditing of antibiotic stewardship compliance by 26 (16%), auditing of cleaning practices by 115 (72%), on-site diagnostic testing by 74 (47%), vancomycin as first-line treatment by 24 (15%) and reporting rates to senior leadership by 52 (33%). None of these processes were associated with a significantly reduced risk of C. difficile after adjustment for baseline C. difficile rates, structural hospital characteristics and patient-level factors. Patient-level factors were strongly associated with C. difficile risk, including age, comorbidities, non-elective and medical admissions.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest study to date, selected hospital prevention strategies were not associated with a statistically significant reduction in patients' risk of C. difficile infection. These prevention strategies have either limited effectiveness or were ineffectively implemented during the study period.

Proton-Pump Inhibitor Exposure Aggravates Clostridium difficile-Associated Colitis: Evidence From a Mouse Model

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile is currently the leading cause of infectious diarrhea in hospitalized patients. In addition to the infection due to toxigenic C. difficile in the gastrointestinal tract of susceptible hosts, other predisposing factors for C. difficile infection (CDI) are identified, including advanced age, a prolonged hospital stay, and use of acid-suppressive drugs. Of note, exposure to gastric acid-reducing agents, such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), remains a controversial risk factor, and has been associated with CDI in some studies but not in others. A mouse model of antibiotic-associated clostridial colitis was established to examine the role of PPIs for CDI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A mouse model of antibiotic-associated clostridial colitis was set up. NF-κB reporter mice were used to address the in vivo spatial and temporal inflammatory patterns of C. difficile-associated colitis. Serum levels of lipopolysaccharide and dextran-FITC were measured to reflect the barrier permeability of affected intestines.

RESULTS

Mice with CDI that were exposed to PPI exhibited greater losses of stool consistency and body and cecal weights than those that were not exposed to PPI. Further, more neutrophilic infiltrations, epithelial damage, and inflammatory cytokine expression were noted in colon specimens of the mice with PPI exposure. More-evident inflammatory responses were detected by in vivo imaging of NF-κB reporter mice with CDI that were exposed to PPI. Gut barrier permeability was increased to a greater extent, as reflected by higher serum levels of lipopolysaccharide and dextran-FITC in mice with CDI that were exposed to PPI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our mouse model demonstrates that PPI exposure increases the severity of intestinal inflammation in mice with C. difficile-associated colitis.

Comorbidities, Exposure to Medications, and the Risk of Community-Acquired Clostridium difficile Infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has been extensively described in healthcare settings; however, risk factors associated with community-acquired (CA) CDI remain uncertain. This study aimed to synthesize the current evidence for an association between commonly prescribed medications and comorbidities with CA-CDI.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in 5 electronic databases for epidemiologic studies that examined the association between the presence of comorbidities and exposure to medications with the risk of CA-CDI. Pooled odds ratios were estimated using 3 meta-analytic methods. Subgroup analyses by location of studies and by life stages were conducted.

RESULTS

Twelve publications (n=56,776 patients) met inclusion criteria. Antimicrobial (odds ratio, 6.18; 95% CI, 3.80-10.04) and corticosteroid (1.81; 1.15-2.84) exposure were associated with increased risk of CA-CDI. Among the comorbidities, inflammatory bowel disease (odds ratio, 3.72; 95% CI, 1.52-9.12), renal failure (2.64; 1.23-5.68), hematologic cancer (1.75; 1.02-5.68), and diabetes mellitus (1.15; 1.05-1.27) were associated with CA-CDI. By location, antimicrobial exposure was associated with a higher risk of CA-CDI in the United States, whereas proton-pump inhibitor exposure was associated with a higher risk in Europe. By life stages, the risk of CA-CDI associated with antimicrobial exposure greatly increased in adults older than 65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Antimicrobial exposure was the strongest risk factor associated with CA-CDI. Further studies are required to investigate the risk of CA-CDI associated with medications commonly prescribed in the community. Patients with diarrhea who have inflammatory bowel disease, renal failure, hematologic cancer, or diabetes are appropriate populations for interventional studies of screening.

A retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics, hospitalization, and functional outcomes in residents with and without Clostridium difficile infection in US long-term care facilities

OBJECTIVE

Patients in long-term care (LTC) are at increased risk for acquiring Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). We compared the characteristics and outcomes of matched cohorts with and without CDI in the LTC setting.

METHODS

Using a retrospective cohort design, demographic characteristics, Minimum Data Set (MDS 2.0) assessments (years 2007-2010), and pharmacy records of residents were analyzed. Residents were required to have a CDI diagnosis, ≥1 MDS 2.0 assessment ≤120 days pre- and post-index event, and receipt of metronidazole (MET) or vancomycin (VAN) within ±7 days of index date. Baseline characteristics were compared between cases and controls matched 1:3 on age, gender, and index year. Cox regression (CR) analysis evaluated the relationship between CDI status, and post-index mortality and hospitalization.

RESULTS

A total of 1145 CDI residents were matched with 3488 non-CDI residents. A second sample used propensity score methods. CDI vs. non-CDI residents had a higher baseline comorbidity burden (Charlson score: 3.0 ± 1.9 vs. 2.2 ± 1.8, respectively), and were more likely to have had a recent hospitalization (63% vs. 9%, respectively) and shorter mean pre-index continuous length of stay (cLOS) in the LTC (386.4 d ± 536.3 d vs. 568.3 d ± 567.4 d, respectively), all P < 0.0001. CR analyses of both samples indicated that CDI was strongly associated with shorter times to hospitalization and mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.3, P = 0.023 and 2.2, P < 0.0001, respectively; propensity-matched group). Pre-index LTC cLOS also remained an important variable in the CR analysis and was the strongest predictor of post-index hospitalization and mortality (HR = 0.999 and 0.996, respectively, P < 0.0001), indicating that residents with longer pre-index LTC cLOS had longer times to post-index hospitalization and mortality. Our reliance on the MDS records for case identification was our chief limitation; misclassification was mitigated by our requirement to include CDI treatment as part of our inclusion criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding factors that put LTC patients at risk for CDI can help guide better management and improvement of patient outcomes.

The changing epidemiology of Clostridium difficile infection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a growing concern and has a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality. Epidemiology of CDI has dramatically changed over the last decade. Diagnostic and treatment strategies are even more complicated given the wide variety of available diagnostic methods and the emergence of refractory or recurrent CDI. This review is intended to provide information on current CDI epidemiology and guidance for evidence-based diagnosis and management strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Various studies from the United States, Europe, and Canada revealed increased incidence of CDI since 2000. Although CDI has long been associated with healthcare settings, recent studies indicate it is more common in the community than previously recognized. For diagnostic strategies, newer testing methods, including nucleic acid amplification tests, have enhanced sensitivity compared with toxin testing, but at the expense of decreased specificity. New agents for treating CDI are being developed and higher quality data to support fecal microbiota transplantation for treating recurrent CDI are emerging.

SUMMARY

CDI epidemiology continues to evolve. Prompt recognition and an evidence-based treatment approach is the key to successfully manage CDI. Further, studies on diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are needed to further improve patient outcomes.

The simple predictors of pseudomembranous colitis in patients with hospital-acquired diarrhea: a prospective observational study

Background/Aims

As the incidence rate of and mortality from pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) are increasing worldwide, it is important to study the simple predictive risk factors for PMC among patients with hospital-acquired diarrhea (HAD). This study focused on identifying the clinical risk factors that can easily predict PMC.

Methods

The presumed HAD patients were prospectively recruited at the Hallym University Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital.

Results

Age of 70 and older (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12 to 0.75), use of proton pump inhibitors (adjusted OR, 4.07; 95% CI, 2.512 to 6.57), use of cephalosporins (adjusted OR, 2.99; 95% CI, 1.82 to 4.94), and underlying cancer (adjusted OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.04 to 2.82) were independent risk factors for PMC in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of PMC was very low in the patients with HAD who exhibited no risk factors.

Conclusions

The risk factors for PMC in patients with HAD included cephalosporin use, proton pump inhibitor use, old age, and cancer. Considering the strongly negative predictive values of these risk factors, endoscopic evaluation can be delayed in patients with HAD without risk of developing PMC.

Indications and safety of proton pump inhibitor drug use in patients with cancer

INTRODUCTION

Although the exact prevalence of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use in cancer patients is not known, it is generally perceived to be widespread. PPIs are generally well tolerated and carry an excellent safety profile. However, increasing and longer term PPI use has raised concerns about the risk of pneumonia, bone fractures and enteric infections, and a possible interaction with clopidogrel that could increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

AREAS COVERED

We conducted a PubMed search of English language articles addressing the safety and adverse events associated with PPI use with particular emphasis in cancer patients.

EXPERT OPINION

PPIs, frequently used in cancer patients, are generally well tolerated and carry an excellent safety profile. PPI-induced acid suppression may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile or other enteric infections, nutritional deficiencies and community acquired pneumonia, all particularly important in cancer patients. The indications for PPI use in cancer patients should be carefully reviewed prior to use.

Meta-analysis of antibiotics and the risk of community-associated Clostridium difficile infection

The rising incidence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) could be reduced by lowering exposure to high-risk antibiotics. The objective of this study was to determine the association between antibiotic class and the risk of CDI in the community setting. The EMBASE and PubMed databases were queried without restriction to time period or language. Comparative observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) considering the impact of exposure to antibiotics on CDI risk among nonhospitalized populations were considered. We estimated pooled odds ratios (OR) for antibiotic classes using random-effect meta-analysis. Our search criteria identified 465 articles, of which 7 met inclusion criteria; all were observational studies. Five studies considered antibiotic risk relative to no antibiotic exposure: clindamycin (OR = 16.80; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 7.48 to 37.76), fluoroquinolones (OR = 5.50; 95% CI, 4.26 to 7.11), and cephalosporins, monobactams, and carbapenems (CMCs) (OR = 5.68; 95% CI, 2.12 to 15.23) had the largest effects, while macrolides (OR = 2.65; 95% CI, 1.92 to 3.64), sulfonamides and trimethoprim (OR = 1.81; 95% CI, 1.34 to 2.43), and penicillins (OR = 2.71; 95% CI, 1.75 to 4.21) had lower associations with CDI. We noted no effect of tetracyclines on CDI risk (OR = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.61 to 1.40). In the community setting, there is substantial variation in the risk of CDI associated with different antimicrobial classes. Avoidance of high-risk antibiotics (such as clindamycin, CMCs, and fluoroquinolones) in favor of lower-risk antibiotics (such as penicillins, macrolides, and tetracyclines) may help reduce the incidence of CDI.

The association between histamine 2 receptor antagonist use and Clostridium difficile infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a major health problem. Epidemiological evidence suggests that there is an association between acid suppression therapy and development of CDI.

PURPOSE

We sought to systematically review the literature that examined the association between histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and CDI.

DATA SOURCE

We searched Medline, Current Contents, Embase, ISI Web of Science and Elsevier Scopus from 1990 to 2012 for all analytical studies that examined the association between H2RAs and CDI.

STUDY SELECTION

Two authors independently reviewed the studies for eligibility.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data about studies characteristics, adjusted effect estimates and quality were extracted.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Thirty-five observations from 33 eligible studies that included 201834 participants were analyzed. Studies were performed in 6 countries and nine of them were multicenter. Most studies did not specify the type or duration of H2RAs therapy. The pooled effect estimate was 1.44, 95% CI (1.22-1.7), I(2) = 70.5%. This association was consistent across different subgroups (by study design and country) and there was no evidence of publication bias. The pooled effect estimate for high quality studies was 1.39 (1.15-1.68), I2 = 72.3%. Meta-regression analysis of 10 study-level variables did not identify sources of heterogeneity. In a speculative analysis, the number needed to harm (NNH) with H2RAs at 14 days after hospital admission in patients receiving antibiotics or not was 58, 95% CI (37, 115) and 425, 95% CI (267, 848), respectively. For the general population, the NNH at 1 year was 4549, 95% CI (2860, 9097).

CONCLUSION

In this rigorous systematic review and meta-analysis, we observed an association between H2RAs and CDI. The absolute risk of CDI associated with H2RAs is highest in hospitalized patients receiving antibiotics.

Clostridium difficile infection in the inflammatory bowel disease patient

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has been increasing in frequency and severity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Population based and single center studies have shown worse clinical outcomes in concomitant CDI and IBD, with several reporting longer length of hospital stay, higher colectomy rates and increased mortality. Clinically, CDI may be difficult to distinguish from an IBD flare and may range from an asymptomatic carrier state to severe life threatening colitis. The traditional risk factors for CDI have included hospitalization, antibiotic use, older age and severe co-morbid disease but IBD patients have several distinct characteristics including younger age, community acquisition, lack of antibiotic exposure, colonic IBD and steroid use. CDI can occur in the small bowel and specifically in ulcerative colitis patients who have had a colectomy and an ileal pouch anal anastomosis. PCR based assays and combination Elisa algorithms have improved the sensitivity and specificity of testing, though in IBD patients have raised clinical questions about how to best manage diarrhea in the setting of possible C. difficile colonization. Treatment modalities for CDI have not been examined in randomized clinical trials in the IBD population. Newer antibiotics, immunotherapy and fecal microbiota transplantation may alter current treatment strategies. This review will focus on the unique epidemiology of CDI in IBD patients, detail clinical disease states, and provide updated diagnostic strategies, prevention and treatment options.

Association between proton pump inhibitor therapy and clostridium difficile infection: a contemporary systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Emerging epidemiological evidence suggests that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) acid-suppression therapy is associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI).

Methods

Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, ISI Web of Science, and Scopus were searched from 1990 to January 2012 for analytical studies that reported an adjusted effect estimate of the association between PPI use and CDI. We performed random-effect meta-analyses. We used the GRADE framework to interpret the findings.

Results

We identified 47 eligible citations (37 case-control and 14 cohort studies) with corresponding 51 effect estimates. The pooled OR was 1.65, 95% CI (1.47, 1.85), I² = 89.9%, with evidence of publication bias suggested by a contour funnel plot. A novel regression based method was used to adjust for publication bias and resulted in an adjusted pooled OR of 1.51 (95% CI, 1.26–1.83). In a speculative analysis that assumes that this association is based on causality, and based on published baseline CDI incidence, the risk of CDI would be very low in the general population taking PPIs with an estimated NNH of 3925 at 1 year.

Conclusions

In this rigorously conducted systemic review and meta-analysis, we found very low quality evidence (GRADE class) for an association between PPI use and CDI that does not support a cause-effect relationship.

Clostridium difficile infection: new insights into management

Clostridium difficile was first described as a cause of diarrhea in 1978 and is now among the leading 3 hospital-acquired infections in the United States, along with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant enterococci. In the past 2 decades, there has been an increase in the incidence, severity, and recurrence rates of C difficile infection, all of which are associated with poor outcomes. In addition, several novel risk factors and newer treatment methods are emerging, including fidaxomicin therapy, treatment using monoclonal antibodies, and fecal microbiota transplantation, that have shown promise for the treatment of C difficile infection. This review focuses on the changing epidemiology, risk factors, and newer methods for treatment of C difficile infection.

Effect of biotherapeutics on antitoxin IgG in experimentally induced Clostridium difficile infection

PURPOSE

Recurrent diarrhoea after successful treatment of primary Clostridium difficile associated disease (CDAD) occurs due to bowel flora alterations and failure to mount an effective antibody response. Apart from antibiotics, risk factors include immunosuppressive and acid-suppressive drug administration. Biotherapeutics such as probiotic and epidermal growth factor (EGF) may offer potential effective therapy for CDAD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of biotherapeutics in mounting an antibody response against C. difficile toxins was studied in BALB/c mice challenged with C. difficile after pre-treatment with ampicillin, lansoprazole or cyclosporin. Sera from sacrificed animals were estimated for antitoxin IgG by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Antitoxin IgG was significantly higher (P<0.05) in C. difficile challenged groups compared to unchallenged controls, but insignificant (P>0.05) in animals in which C. difficile was given after pre-treatment with cyclosporin compared to those without any pre-treatment, or pre-treatment with antibiotic or lansoprazole. In inter-subgroup comparisons also significant anomaly in production of antitoxin IgG was found. The antitoxin IgG levels were raised in animals administered C. difficile after pre-treatment with ampicillin, but lower in animals administered cyclosporin. High levels of antitoxin IgG were also found in the serum samples of animals receiving lansoprazole and C. difficile.

CONCLUSIONS

Probiotics showed their beneficial effect by boosting the immune response as seen by production of antitoxin IgG. Oral administration of EGF did not affect the immune response to C. difficile toxins as significant increase was not observed in the serum antitoxin IgG levels in any of the groups investigated.

Association Between Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and a Clostridium difficile-Associated Disease Outbreak: Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been implicated as a potential contributor to the development of Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) because of the ability of these drugs to substantially reduce the bactericidal effect of gastric acid. This study focused on the impact of PPIs, among other known risk factors, during an outbreak of CDAD in a hospital setting.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to determine whether there was an association between current use of a PPI and the CDAD outbreak. Secondary objectives were to evaluate any correlations between the CDAD outbreak and past use of PPIs, use of antibiotics, diabetes mellitus, enteral feeding, cancer, gastrointestinal surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, and previous care or residence in an institutional setting.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was conducted. One hundred and fifty cases of hospital-acquired Clostridium difficile were identified. Patients were individually matched to controls for age, sex, date of admission to hospital, and hospital unit. The groups were compared with respect to each exposure.

RESULTS

Eight case patients could not be matched with suitable controls. Therefore, data from 142 cases and 142 controls were analyzed. There was no association between current use of a PPI and the CDAD outbreak (odds ratio [OR] 1.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99-1.01). Similarly, there was no correlation between the CDAD outbreak and diabetes, enteral feeding, cancer, gastrointestinal surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, or previous care or residence in an institution. However, the development of CDAD was positively associated with use of antibiotics within the 30 days preceding the infection (OR 12.0, 95% CI 4.0-35.7) and with past use of a PPI (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.4-4.3).

CONCLUSIONS

The development of CDAD during a hospital outbreak was associated with use of antibiotics and with past, not current, use of PPIs.

Gastric acid suppression and outcomes in Clostridium difficile infection: a population-based study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of gastric acid suppression medications, including proton pump inhibitors and histamine type 2 blockers, with outcomes in patients with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in a population-based cohort.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To understand the association between acid suppression and outcomes in patients with CDI, we conducted a population-based study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, from January 1, 1991, through December 31, 2005. We compared demographic data and outcomes, including severe, severe-complicated, and recurrent CDI and treatment failure, in a cohort of patients with CDI who were treated with acid suppression medications with these outcomes in a cohort with CDI that was not exposed to acid-suppressing agents.

RESULTS

Of 385 patients with CDI, 36.4% were undergoing acid suppression (23.4% with proton pump inhibitors, 13.5% with histamine type 2 blockers, and 0.5% with both). On univariate analysis, patients taking acid suppression medications were significantly older (69 vs 56 years; P<.001) and more likely to have severe (34.2% vs 23.6%; P=.03) or severe-complicated (4.4% vs 2.6% CDI; P=.006) infection than patients not undergoing acid suppression. On multivariable analyses, after adjustment for age and comorbid conditions, acid suppression medication use was not associated with severe or severe-complicated CDI. In addition, no association between acid suppression and treatment failure or CDI recurrence was found.

CONCLUSION

In this population-based study, after adjustment for age and comorbid conditions, patients with CDI who underwent acid suppression were not more likely to experience severe or severe-complicated CDI, treatment failure, or recurrent infection.

Risk of Clostridium difficile infection with acid suppressing drugs and antibiotics: meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Several studies have raised concern regarding the possible association between proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). We aimed to perform a systematic review of incident and recurrent CDI in PPI users, and to evaluate the relative impact of concurrent antibiotic use, or switching acid suppression to histamine-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs).

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception to December 2011 for controlled observational studies that reported on the risk of CDI with and without PPI use. We performed random effects meta-analysis and assessed statistical heterogeneity using the I(2) statistic.

RESULTS

We included 42 observational studies (30 case-control, 12 cohort) totalling 313,000 participants overall. Pooled analysis of 39 studies showed a statistically significant association between PPI use and risk of developing CDI, odds ratio (OR) 1.74 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.47-2.85, P<0.001, I(2)=85%) compared with non-users. A pooled analysis of three studies showed a significant associated risk of recurrent CDI associated with PPIs, OR 2.51 (95% CI 1.16-5.44, P=0.005, I(2)=78%). Subgroup analysis failed to fully clarify the source of the substantial statistical heterogeneity. Adjusted indirect comparison demonstrated that use of H2RAs as an alternative carried a lower-risk OR 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.97) compared with PPIs. Conversely, concomitant use of PPI and antibiotics conferred a greater-risk OR 1.96 (95% CI 1.03-3.70) above that of PPIs alone. For PPI and antibiotics, the Rothman's synergy index was 1.36 and attributable proportion of risk from interaction 0.19, indicating an increased risk from interaction beyond the effects of each drug alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the substantial statistical and clinical heterogeneity, our findings indicate a probable association between PPI use and incident and recurrent CDI. This risk is further increased by concomitant use of antibiotics and PPI, whereas H2RAs may be less harmful.

Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and proton pump inhibitor therapy: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) is a major cause of morbidity and increasing health-care costs among hospitalized patients. Although exposure to antibiotics remains the most documented risk factor for CDAD, attention has recently been directed toward a plausible link with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, the results of studies on the association between CDAD and PPIs remain controversial. We have conducted a meta-analysis to summarize the association between PPIs and CDAD among hospitalized patients.

METHODS

A systematic search of published literature on studies that investigated the association between PPIs and CDAD from 1990 to 2010 was conducted on Medline and PubMed. The identified articles were reviewed for additional references. The most adjusted risk estimates were extracted by two authors and summarized using random effects meta-analysis. We also conducted a subgroup analysis by study design. Publication bias was evaluated using the Begg and Egger tests. A sensitivity analysis using the Duval and Tweedie "trim-and-fill" method has also been performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies including close to 300,000 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was a 65% (summary risk estimate 1.69 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) from 1.395 to 1.974; P<0.000) increase in the incidence of CDAD among patients on PPIs. By study design, whether case-control study (17) or cohort study (6), there was still a significant increase in the incidence of CDAD among PPI users. The risk estimates were 2.31 (95% CI from 1.72 to 3.10; P<0.001) and 1.48 (95% CI from 1.25 to 1.75; P<0.001) for cohort and case-control studies, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

There is sufficient evidence to suggest that PPIs increase the incidence of CDAD. Our meta-analysis shows a 65% increase in the incidence of CDAD among PPI users. We recommend that the routine use of PPIs for gastric ulcer prophylaxis should be more prudent. Establishing a guideline for the use of PPI may help in the future with the judicious use of PPIs. Further studies, preferably prospective, are needed to fully explore the association between PPIs and CDAD.

Proton pump inhibitor use and recurrent Clostridium difficile-associated disease: a case-control analysis matched by propensity score

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Clostridium difficile has been increasingly diagnosed in hospitalized patients. An association between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) use and Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) and between recurrent CDAD has been suggested. The aim of this study is to investigate whether PPI use is associated with the development of recurrent CDAD.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case-control study of patients with CDAD at Yeungnam University Medical Center, seen from January 2004 to December 2008. C. difficile infection was diagnosed by the presence of C. difficile toxin in the stool. Those with recurrent disease were matched with nonrecurrent controls using multivariate matched sampling methods that incorporated the propensity score.

RESULTS

Recurrent CDAD developed in 28 (14.1%) of the 198 patients with diarrhea and positive C. difficile stool toxin assays. Multivariate analysis of the total population of recurrent versus nonrecurrent CDAD revealed that additional use of non-C. difficile antimicrobial therapy (concomitant with the treatment or after or both), poor response to therapy with metronidazole or vancomycin, and recent gastrointestinal surgery were risk factors for recurrent CDAD. We were able to match 21 recurrent CDAD subjects with 21 without recurrent CDAD. Among the matched patients only PPI use was associated with recurrent CDAD (ie, 47.6% vs. 4.8%, P=0.004 for recurrent vs. nonrecurrent CDAD, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Among the matched patient groups, only PPI therapy was associated with recurrent CDAD. Prospective studies are needed to clarify whether avoidance of PPIs or specific cotherapies will reduce the incidence of recurrent C. difficile-associated diarrhea.

Epidemiology and outcomes of Clostridium difficile infections in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Background. Clostridium difficile is the leading cause of infectious diarrhea among hospitalized patients and is a major concern for patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Risk factors and the natural history of C. difficile infection (CDI) are poorly understood in this population. Methods. We performed a retrospective nested case-control study to describe the epidemiology, timing, and risk factors for CDI among adult patients who received HSCTs at our center from January 2003 through December 2008. Results. The overall 1-year incidence of CDI was 9.2% among HSCTs performed (n = 999). The median time to diagnosis of CDI was short among both autologous and allogeneic HSCT recipients (6.5 days and 33 days, respectively). Risk factors for CDI in allogeneic HSCT recipients included receipt of chemotherapy prior to conditioning for HSCT, broad-spectrum antimicrobial use, and acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD; adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 4.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.54-12.84; P = .006). There was a strong relationship between early CDI and subsequent development of gastrointestinal tract GVHD in the year following allogeneic HSCT (P < .001). Gastrointestinal GVHD was also strongly associated with an increased risk for recurrent CDI (AOR, 4.23 [95% CI, 1.20-14.86]; P = .02). Conclusions. These results highlight the high incidence and early timing of CDI after HSCT. Early timing, coupled with the noted risk of pretransplant chemotherapy, suggests that the natural history of disease in some patients may involve colonization prior to HSCT. A potentially important interplay between CDI and GVHD involving the gastrointestinal tract was observed.