Modified Multiple-Locus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis for Rapid Identification and Typing of Clostridium difficile during Institutional Outbreaks

A modified multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MMLVA) method was validated on Clostridium difficile-infected stool specimens from institutional outbreaks. The method allows simultaneous detection of toxin genes, deletions, and tandem repeats from cultured isolates or stool specimens. Results were used to aid institutional outbreak investigation by identifying clusters of NAP1/027.