|Articles|August 16, 2013

Risk Factors for Clostridium difficile Infection?

Age; proton pump inhibitor us; immunosuppression; BMI: which of these is not a risk factor for Clostridium difficile infection?

Previous antibiotic use and hospitalization are well known risk factors for the development of Clostridium difficile infection. All of the following are additional risk factors except which one?

A. Age
B. PPI use
C. Immunosuppression
D. BMI

ANSWER: D

Advanced age has repeatedly been found to be a major risk factor for C difficile infection. In addition, the use of acid suppressants (particularly PPIs) as well as immunosuppression (eg, HIV infection or chemotherapy) are associated with C difficile infection. BMI is not a known risk factor.

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Risk Factors for Clostridium difficile Infection?

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