Recurrence of Clostridioides difficile infection and mortality in older inpatients

Key summary points Aim To investigate the association between Clostridioides difficile recurrence and 6-month mortality in older inpatients and the risk factors for Clostridioides difficile recurrence after hospital discharge. Findings Clostridioides difficile recurrence is associated with a higher risk of 6-month mortality. Vancomycin treatment during the first infectious episode was associated with lower recurrence rate, as compared to metronidazole. Message This research showed as that Clostridioides difficile recurrence may itself be a marker of frailty and vulnerability in older people. The use of vancomycin as first-line therapy, compared to metronidazole, may reduce the likelihood of future recurrence, regardless of the disease severity.