Unusual Presentation of Clostridium Difficile Infection in a Patient with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is commonly associated with nosocomial diarrhea; however, certain atypical presentations can challenge its diagnosis. We report a case of CDI in a 25-year-old male with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), presenting with unusual clinical features, including abdominal distension, lower extremity edema, and persistent non-bloody diarrhea. Diagnostic uncertainty arose due to the patient’s prior IBD diagnosis and atypical symptoms. Nevertheless, CDI was confirmed through stool toxin assay and colonoscopy findings of pseudomembranes. Treatment with oral vancomycin resulted in complete symptom resolution, underscoring the importance of considering CDI in cases with atypical symptoms. Prompt diagnosis is essential for effective management and prevention of complications.

Keywords

• Clostridium difficile
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Ulcerative colitis
• Pseudomembranous colitis