Clostridium difficile infection in non-HIV-immunocompromised patients and in HIV-infected patients.

Clostridium difficile infection is a common cause of morbidity in patients with HIV infection and in patients with non-HIV immune deficiency. The frequency of C. difficile--associated diarrhea (CDAD) seen in these two patient populations has been attributed to immune deficiency, as well as to increased exposure to hospital environments and antibiotic therapy, both of which are major risk factors for CDAD. This article reviews recent data useful in the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of C. difficile infection in these patient groups. Recent publications relating to C. difficile infection in specific immunocompromised conditions are also discussed.