Clostridium difficile infection :
Clostridium difficile infection is caused by colonisation of the colon with Clostridium difficile and production of toxin. It often follows antibiotic therapy and is usually of acute onset, but may become chronic. It is a particular hazard of ampicillin , amoxicillin , co-amoxiclav , second- and third-generation cephalosporins, clindamycin , and quinolones, but few antibacterials are free of this side-effect. Oral metronidazole or oral vancomycin are used as specific treatment; vancomycin may be preferred for very sick patients. Metronidazole can be given by intravenous infusion if oral treatment is inappropriate.