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Recurrent C difficile infection — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateInternal Medicine (chronic management)Recurrent C difficile infectionUSMLE Step 3

A 74-year-old woman develops her second recurrence of Clostridioides difficile diarrhea after completing vancomycin. She is stable and has no ileus or megacolon. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: C — Treat with fidaxomicin or a vancomycin taper strategy

Recurrent C difficile infection is treated with recurrence-directed regimens such as fidaxomicin or vancomycin taper/pulse depending on context.

Reference: IDSA/SHEA Clostridioides difficile guideline