Severe inflammation or toxic megacolon is a dangerous complication. The colon becomes very distended and is unable to pass stools or gas. It is at risk of rupturing, which would discharge stool and bacteria into the abdominal cavity, causing fecal peritonitis. Toxic megacolon requires prompt treatment, which usually involves surgery. Unfortunately, this severe complication of Clostridium difficile colitis is often fatal.

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