Scientific Poster Session II: Residents and Fellows Research-in-Progress

Residents and Fellows Research in Progress
  Sunday, November 12, 2023
  12:45 PM–02:15 PM

Abstract

Introduction: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) testing has evolved to include multiple available tests that detect organism specific antigens, toxins, and toxin-producing genes. Guideline-recommended multistep testing algorithms generate the possibility for patients to produce indeterminate test results. There are no guideline recommendations for the treatment of indeterminate test results, with limited literature to guide clinical management. This creates uncertainty in treating these patients, posing a challenge to clinicians.

Research Question or Hypothesis: How frequently are patients who produce indeterminate CDI test results at a large academic medical center treated for presumed CDI?

Study Design: Single center, retrospective chart review.

Methods: Adult patients admitted between 01/01/2023 and 08/15/2023 who produce indeterminate CDI test results will be included. Indeterminate test results are defined as samples that are negative for toxin A/B by immunoassay and positive for toxin producing gene by polymerase chain reaction. The primary outcome of this study is to determine the frequency with which patients producing indeterminate test results for CDI are initiated on treatment. Secondary outcomes include: the initial agent chosen for treatment, frequency of treatment based on primary service, and frequency of treatment in patients with high-risk baseline demographics based on those identified by established guidelines, including age >65 years, concurrent high-risk antibiotics, proton pump inhibitor use, established renal insufficiency and/or prior CDI. High risk antibiotics that will be collected include clindamycin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, 3^rd generation cephalosporins, 4^th generation cephalosporins, aztreonam, and carbapenems. Descriptive statistics will be utilized to analyze data.

Results: Data regarding outcomes are forthcoming.

Conclusion: Conclusions regarding analyzed data will be presented upon project completion.

Presenting Author

Noah Ball PharmD
WVU Medicine - WVU Hospitals

Authors

Benjamin Bredhold PharmD, BCPS
WVU Medicine - WVU Hospitals

Jay L. Martello PharmD, BCPS
West Virginia University Medicine

Drew Ward PharmD, BCIDP
WVU Medicine