Mar 6, 2024 · Key points There are four laboratory tests used to diagnose Clostridioides difficile infection or CDI. Hospitals are required to report C. diff infections.

C. diff testing is most often used to find out if C. diff is causing diarrhea. But diarrhea can have many causes, so the test may be used with tests for parasites and other bacteria that also …

Tests used are either flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. The tests involve putting a flexible tube with a small camera on one end into the colon to look for problem areas.

Sep 30, 2025 · The test is done to see if diarrhea that won't go away was caused by Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) toxins.

C. diff is a nickname for a bacterium whose full name is Clostridioides difficile (klos-TRID-e-OY-dees dif-uh-SEEL). This bacterium can infect your colon (large intestine), causing diarrhea and …

Because you can still have C. diff bacteria in your gut without having an active infection, the results of a diagnostic test are insufficient. Similarly, doctors do not test for “cure.”

The currently available tests for CDI, particularly the molecular tests (C diff PCR and GI Panel) are highly sensitive and may detect levels of the bacteria which are not clinically meaningful.

NYU Langone doctors use stool tests, blood tests, or imaging tests to diagnose a Clostridium difficile infection. Learn more.

You can also click here to read the full guide on C. diff testing. It explains each test in plain English, shows how to interpret different result combos, and helps you make sense of your …

Mar 5, 2024 · Order a C. diff test if other etiologies of diarrhea such as stool softener or laxative were not used. Wear gloves and a gown when treating patients with potential infectious …