“CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE TOXINA A Y B EN ADULTOS MAYORES Y SU RELACIÓN CON PROBLEMAS GASTROINTESTINALES EN LA CIUDAD DE PUYO

Abstract

Clostridium difficile (CD) is a Gram Positive bacteria that can cause serious infections in the intestinal tract. It mainly affects older adults, due to its change in the microbiota as their age increases. Infections can range from mild cases, with symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps, to severe cases that can cause pseudomembranous colitis, and damage to the colon that can cause death. Transmission of C. difficile occurs primarily through contact with surfaces contaminated with the bacteria's spores. These spores are very resistant and can persist in the environment for a long time. They also produce two types of main toxins, A and B, which are involved in the pathogenesis and severity of the infection. Therefore, the study of this pathogen is essential, mainly in entities that work with this group of people and who, when in contact, could spread. The study was based on a qualitative-quantitative, cross-sectional correlational observational design, in which 68 older adults belonging to the “Golden Years” project of the Provincial Board of Pastaza participated, who underwent CD analysis in stool samples, which which allowed the identification of positive cases for this pathogen, all participants indicated that they had discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract such as: diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, etc. In addition, predisposing factors for contracting the infection were identified such as: age, use of antibiotics, hospitalizations that predispose this is population group to be more prone to infection. This research has allowed a more at detailed view on the relationship of problems of the gastrointestinal system with Clostridium Difficile infection in vulnerable populations such as older adults and emphasizes the importance of the analysis of this microorganism to contribute to the development and prevent the spread of the disease. infection especially in environments where there are gatherings of older adults that they share.