Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is a bacterium that causes gut infections leading to severe symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain, often following antibiotic use, which disrupts the gut microbiome. A recent Cochrane Review led by Aamer Imdad, a professor at Upstate Medical University, indicates that stool transplantation is more effective for treating recurrent C. diff infections than standard antibiotics. The study found that 77% of patients receiving stool transplants avoided reinfection within eight weeks compared to only 40% with antibiotics. This highlights the issue of dysbiosis, where “bad” bacteria can proliferate post-antibiotic treatment. Each antibiotic treatment increases the chance of recurrence, complicating recovery. Stool transplantation aims to restore healthy gut bacteria by introducing donor stool, following strict screening procedures. The review analyzed data from six trials involving 320 adults and showed significant success in resolving recurrent infections and fewer side effects compared to antibiotics. The FDA has recently approved a stool transplant product for C. diff recurrence prevention. Another Cochrane Review by Dr. Imdad explores stool transplants for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), showing some promise for ulcerative colitis, but further research is needed regarding Crohn’s disease. Overall, stool transplantation emerges as a crucial approach in breaking the cycle of C. diff infections.
