What condition is primarily caused by Clostridium difficile?

Clostridium difficile is primarily known for causing diarrhea and colitis, which are gastrointestinal conditions. This bacterium produces toxins that can cause inflammation of the colon, leading to a range of symptoms including watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in more severe cases, colitis, which is an inflammation of the colon. This can occur especially after the use of antibiotics, which disrupt the normal gut flora and allow Clostridium difficile to proliferate. The focus on gastrointestinal effects distinguishes it from the other options, which are associated with different types of infections. Understanding this condition is crucial in infection prevention practices, especially in settings like nursing homes, where vulnerable populations are at higher risk for such infections.