The following symptoms and complaints may indicate pseudomembranous enterocolitis (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea or Clostridium difficile infection, CDI):
- Abrupt onset with watery foul-smelling diarrhea (> 10 bowel movements/day; duration: > 3 days).
- Rarely, hemorrhagic diarrhea (bloody diarrhea) occurs.
- Cramping abdominal pain (abdominal discomfort; pain in the lower abdomen).
- Fever (subfebrile temperatures)
- Leukocytosis (increase in the number of white blood cells).
- Hypalbuminemia – decreased concentration of albumin (blood protein).
Warning signs (red flags) for complicated CDI with ileus, toxic megacolon, perforation, or sepsis (see below sequelae)
- High fever
- Extreme leukocytosis
- Disappearance of intestinal peristalsis
- Sudden onset of fecal retention
