Clostridium difficile infection and liver disease.

The rates of the predominantly hospital acquired infection, Clostridium difficile, have increased throughout the world. Several risk factors and susceptible patient populations have been identified. Patients with pre-existing liver disease represent an important cohort; recent evidence suggests that Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is associated with a worse outcome and increased health care costs. This review focuses on the epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, treatment options and outcomes associated with CDI in patients with liver disease.