What is pseudomembranous enterocolitis most commonly a result of?

Pseudomembranous enterocolitis is primarily caused by the overgrowth of Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) bacteria, which is often triggered by the disruption of the normal gut flora due to the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. These antibiotics can kill both pathogenic and beneficial bacteria in the intestines, allowing C. difficile to proliferate unchecked, leading to inflammation of the intestinal lining and the formation of pseudomembranes.

This condition is commonly associated with the use of antibiotics, as they alter the microbial balance in the gut. While other factors can affect gastrointestinal health, such as dietary fiber intake or liver conditions like cirrhosis, these do not directly cause pseudomembranous enterocolitis in the same manner as antibiotic use does. Viral infections, although they can affect the gastrointestinal tract, are not the primary cause of this specific condition either. Thus, the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is the most significant risk factor for developing pseudomembranous enterocolitis.