Abstract
Clostridium difficile is a Gram-positive anaerobe forming spore. Infection caused by Clostridium difficile（Clostridium difficile infection：CDI） often occurs with administering antibiotics after surgery, anticancer agents and so on. These drugs make holders of Clostridium difficile developed diarrhea result from disturbing their intestinal flora.
We have experienced a case of CDI occurred with cancer treatment. The patient was an 82-year-old man who had a gingival cancer. Severe diarrhea was seen with administering antibiotics as a trigger after operation. At first, we considered the cause of diarrhea as complication of tube feeding. However, it was of no effect to stop the antibiotics and change the enteral nutrition. Finally, we diagnosed CDI by carrying out a bacteriological examination for Clostridium difficile and clinical features. To provide metronidazole after stopping the antibiotics was effective cure for the infection. The patient recovered from diarrhea and gradually gained weight. He remains well without CDI and cancer recurrence.
In case of postoperative patients given antibiotics, prolonged or severe digestive symptoms in spite of usual management have the possibility of CDI. It is recommended to exam Clostridium difficile antigen and toxin. In addition, consultation to internal medicine is also important.
