What is the primary risk factor for developing a Clostridium difficile infection?

The primary risk factor for developing a Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is chronic antibiotic use. When antibiotics are taken, they can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the gut, eliminating not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial ones. This disruption allows Clostridium difficile, which is often when present in its spore form, to proliferate as it is resistant to many antibiotics. Consequently, the overgrowth of C. difficile leads to inflammation of the intestines and results in CDI.

While factors like prolonged hospitalization, use of antiseptics, and age over 65 also contribute to the risk of developing CDI, they are secondary to the significant impact of chronic antibiotic use. Prolonged hospitalization can expose patients to healthcare settings where C. difficile is prevalent, while patients over 65 may have compromised immune systems or other health conditions increasing their susceptibility. Antiseptics, although pertinent to infection control, do not play a role in the specific mechanism that leads to C. difficile proliferation in the gut following antibiotic use. Thus, the direct connection between antibiotics and CDI underlines the importance of cautious antibiotic prescribing and usage in preventing this infection.