Which statement describes Clostridium difficile infection?

Which statement describes Clostridium difficile infection?

• A. It does not cause pseudomembranous colitis.
• B. It is toxin-mediated and often follows antimicrobial therapy.
• C. It is not associated with antibiotic exposure.
• D. Cytotoxins can be detected in stool.

Answer: (B)

Clostridioides difficile infection is defined by toxins produced by a toxigenic strain that damage the gut lining. This disease typically follows antimicrobial therapy, which disrupts the normal intestinal flora and allows C. difficile to overgrow. The two main toxins—toxin A (an enterotoxin) and toxin B (a cytotoxin)—mediate mucosal injury, inflammation, and the hallmark pseudomembranous colitis. This combination of toxin production and the common link to recent antibiotic use best describes the infection.

It's true that cytotoxins can be detected in stool and that toxin detection can support diagnosis, but the most informative single description centers on the toxin-mediated nature of the disease and its association with prior antibiotic exposure. Also, pseudomembranous colitis is a classic manifestation, so saying it does not cause that would be inconsistent with its typical presentation.