Discrepancies in testing recommendations for Clostridium difficile infection: Updated review favors amplification test systems

摘要

Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) have floated to the top as the diagnostic preference for detection of Clostridium difficile. NAATs identify more patients initially than any other test and results can be reported within hours. While both outcome data and clarification between specific molecular methods is needed, data are showing a reduction in healthcare-associated infection transmissions and other related hospital costs. Current C. difficile diagnostic guidelines constructed from studies using methods with poor sensitivity need to be reassessed in light of the growing benefits of NAATs.