Pseudomembranous colitis causes
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
The Clostridium difficile bacteria is normally seen in the intestine. However, it may overgrow when you take antibiotics. The bacteria release a powerful toxin that causes the lining of the colon to become inflammed and bleed.
The most common antibiotics associated with this condition are ampicillin, clindamycin, fluoroquinolones, and cephalosporins.
Pseudomembranous colitis is rare in infants younger than 12 months old and uncommon in children. It is most often seen in people who are in the hospital. However, it is becoming more common in people who take antibiotics and who are not in the hospital.