Clinician and patient knowledge of dysbiosis in the treatment of CDI

What is the issue?

Various treatments are used for CDI and recurrent CDI (rCDI), including antibiotics, antibody-based therapy and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Current treatments all aim through various means to affect the gut microbiome; however, some may paradoxically worsen dysbiosis. The extent to which clinicians consider the role of the gut microbiome in clinical treatment is unclear. These considerations are important given the potential to reduce antimicrobial use and limit the risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Further, there is limited knowledge about what patients or their carers know about dysbiosis, as it relates to CDI, and how this informs acceptance of treatments or self-management and prevention of recurrences.

How are we helping?

RAND Europe has been commissioned by Ferring Pharmaceuticals to provide a better understanding of physician attitudes and behaviours with regard to dysbiosis and the gut microbiome as part of the treatment of CDI and recurrent CDI. The research team will also produce a set of recommendations around the appropriate management of dysbiosis based on the research findings.

The key methodology will involve a mixed-methods analysis of surveys and interviews with clinicians across the U.S., Canada and Australia, and a cross-disciplinary panel of CDI experts. The findings of the project will be disseminated through a published report and additional dissemination materials, such as a conference presentation.