Researchers Review CDI-Related Mortality

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a common cause of diarrhea in hospitalized patients. Around the world, the incidence and severity of CDI appears to be increasing, particularly in the northern hemisphere. Mitchell and Gardner (2012) conducted an integrative review to investigate and describe mortality in hospitalized patients with CDI.
 
A search of the literature between Jan. 1, 2005 and April 30, 2011 focusing on mortality and CDI in hospitalized patients was conducted using electronic databases. Papers were reviewed and analyzed individually and themes were combined using integrative methods.

The researchers report that all-cause mortality at 30 days varied from 9 percent to 38 percent. Three studies report attributable mortality at 30 days, varying from 5.7 percent to 6.9 percent. In hospital mortality ranged from 8 percent to 37.2 percent
 
Mitchell and Gardner (2012) concluded that all-cause 30-day mortality appeared to be high, with 15 studies indicating a mortality of 15 percent or greater. Findings support the notion that CDI is a serious infection and measures to prevent and control CDI are needed. Future studies investigating the mortality of CDI in settings outside of Europe and North America are needed. Similarly, future studies should include data on patient co-morbidities. Their research was published in Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control.

Reference: Mitchell BG and Gardner A. Mortality and Clostridium difficile infection: a review. Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control 2012, 1:20 doi:10.1186/2047-2994-1-20