Epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile Infection in Portugal: A Retrospective, Observational Study of Hospitalized Patients

• DOI: 10.20344/amp.15890
• Publication Date: 2022-04-01T08:38:19Z
• Authors: Cláudia Nazareth; Inês Leitão; Ernestina Reis; Hugo Inácio; Filomena Martins; Elmano Ramalheira; Flávia Cunha; Carla Santos; Sara Lino; Hugo Moreira; Nadiya Kruptsala; Andrea Santos; Laura Paixão; Leonor Pássaro; Mónica Oleastro
• Keywords: Clostridioides

Introduction: Clostridioides difficile is the main cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea in Europe and North America. The aim this study was to characterize epidemiology clinical burden infection among hospitalized patients Portugal.Material Methods: Retrospective conducted six public hospital centers Portugal. All primary episodes related recurrences occurring 2017, as well developing two eight weeks after last episode diagnosed that year, were documented. National Reference Laboratory (National Institute Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge) provided national surveillance data on infection.Results: A total 385 inpatients with at least one 2017 included. Most aged over 70 years-old (73.2%). included developed 451 during observation period. Approximately 44% community-associated. (94.9%) occurred or more risk factors, recent antibiotic exposure being particularly common (86.0%). All-cause in-hospital mortality 19.5%, significantly higher 65 versus those 18 64 (22.4% vs 7.8%, respectively). Over 50 different ribotypes observed 206 strains received by Laboratory.Conclusion: In Portugal, are mostly older presenting factors for development infection, exposure. Mortality disproportionately high population. Community-associated infection.