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Risk factors for small bowel bacterial overgrowth in cystic fibrosis

Jacqueline L Fridge1, Carol Conrad, Lauren Gerson

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital and Research Center Oakland, Oakland, CA 94609-1809, USA. Jfridge@mail.cho.org

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|January 27, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have a higher prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) compared to healthy individuals. Certain medications commonly used in CF care may influence SIBO risk.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pulmonology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, including the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Pancreatic insufficiency is a common complication in CF, potentially impacting gut health.
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is characterized by excessive bacteria in the small intestine.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of SIBO in patients with pancreatic-insufficient CF.
  • To compare SIBO prevalence in CF patients versus age-matched controls.
  • To identify potential risk factors for SIBO in CF patients.

Main Methods:

  • A glucose-hydrogen breath test was used to diagnose SIBO.
  • Fifty patients (25 with CF, 25 controls) underwent the breath test.
  • Medical history and medication use were correlated with breath test results.

Main Results:

  • SIBO prevalence was significantly higher in CF patients (56%) than in controls (20%).
  • CF patients exhibited higher mean fasting hydrogen levels.
  • Azithromycin use was linked to increased SIBO risk, while laxatives and ipratropium were associated with decreased risk.

Conclusions:

  • Patients with CF demonstrate a significantly higher prevalence of SIBO.
  • Elevated fasting hydrogen levels indicate a high likelihood of SIBO in CF.
  • Medications used in CF management may play a role in SIBO development or prevention.
Abstract

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