Diagnostic Features of Clindamycin-Associated Pseudomembranous Colitis

Abstract

DIARRHEA associated with antibiotics is not an unusual finding.1 Recently, clindamycin has been reported to cause a type of colitis with plaque-like elevations on the colonic mucosa.2 , 3 Proctoscopy showed characteristic lesions, and x-ray findings were specific in the three patients treated with clindamycin described below. These findings should facilitate the recognition of pseudomembranous colitis from all causes, since neither of these findings is specific for clindamycin. Over a two-month period, we have seen three patients with severe diarrhea associated with clindamycin. The salient features are outlined in Table 1. Diagnostic Procedures Two tests were found of great help in diagnosing . . .