Efficacy of Lactobacillus casei defensis in preventing Clostridum difficile infections

Background: Probiotics such as Lactobacillus casei defensis (LBCD) are discussed to prevent Clostridum difficile infections (CDI). Methods: In a prospective case-control study of the medical departments of the Städtisches Krankenhaus Kiel, a prophylaxis with LBCD was offered to patients who were treated with antibiotics during their hospital stay. The CDI incidence during the intervention period from 01.04.2008 to 31.12.2008 was compared with the incidence during a previous period of the same months in 2007. Risk factors with a potential impact on CDI incidence were considered. Results: The numbers of CDI were:…