Padronização de um modelo de infecção por Clostridium difficile em hamsters sírios Mesocricetus auratus

Abstract

The aim of this study was to standardize a model of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). In order to evaluate strains capable of causing lethality, five hamsters per group received clindamycin (30mg kg-1) by gavage. After 48 hours, 107colony forming units (CFU) of spores’ solution of four strains were administered per animal. One strain capable of causing diarrhea and death was selected and administered at the following concentrations: 4×102; 4×104; 4×106; 4×108CFU per animal. All dilutions tested were able to cause diarrhea and death. The highest concentration showed 100% of mortality. Post mortem evaluation revealed hemorrhagic typhlitis in all death animals. In addition, all intestinal contents were positive for A/B toxins, and toxigenic C. difficile strains were isolated, confirming the induction of infection by this microorganism. The dose lethal to 50% of the population was calculated: 6.3×104CFU per animal. The standardized model of CDI in hamster is now available for studies on pathogenesis, treatment and control of this disease.