What symptom indicates advanced cases of C. difficile infection?

The presence of pseudomembranes formed in the intestine is a hallmark indicator of advanced cases of Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection. This condition leads to the formation of plaques made up of inflammatory cells, fibrin, and necrotic cells on the colonic mucosa. These pseudomembranes signify significant inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining, which can be a critical complication of the infection.

In the context of C. difficile infection, symptoms often start with diarrhea and abdominal pain, but as the infection progresses, it may cause severe colitis that manifests through the formation of pseudomembranes. Recognizing this symptom is crucial as it can help healthcare providers identify patients with severe infections that may require immediate intervention, such as hospitalization or surgical evaluation, to prevent life-threatening complications.

Other symptoms listed might be present in varying gastrointestinal conditions, but they do not specifically indicate the advanced stage of C. difficile infection as clearly as the presence of pseudomembranes does.