Epidemiology of Clostridium difficile infection in hospitalized oncology patients

Abstract

The epidemiology of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) among oncology inpatients is poorly understood. In multivariate analysis we identified age, history of CDI, and prior receipt of cephalosporins, β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitors, metronidazole, and blood transfusion as risk factors associated with CDI. Reducing broad-spectrum antibiotic use, particularly among older patients and those with a CDI history and recent blood transfusions, may decrease CDI risk in this population.