Probiotics have clinical, microbiologic, and immunologic efficacy in acute infectious diarrhea

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Chien-Chang Chen1, Man-Shan Kong, Ming-Wei Lai

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Taiwan.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|February 6, 2010
PubMed

Insights

This study found that a probiotic mixture significantly reduced diarrhea duration and hospital stays in children. Probiotics also helped restore gut flora and modulate immune responses for better recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Acute infectious diarrhea is a significant cause of illness and financial strain in children.
  • The study aimed to assess the impact of probiotics on diarrhea in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the clinical, microbiologic, and immunologic effects of a specific probiotic mixture (Bio-three) in children with acute infectious diarrhea.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial involving 304 children aged 3 months to 6 years with acute diarrhea.
  • Participants received either Bio-three (a probiotic blend) or a placebo for 7 days.
  • Fecal and blood samples were analyzed for bacterial counts and cytokine profiles.

Main Results:

  • The probiotic group experienced a shorter mean diarrhea duration (60.1 vs. 86.3 hours) and hospital stay (P = 0.003, P = 0.009).
  • Probiotic use increased beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus) and modulated immune responses, including increased IL-10 and down-regulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

Conclusions:

  • The Bio-three probiotic mixture effectively reduced diarrhea severity and hospital stay in children.
  • Probiotics contribute to restoring intestinal flora and enhancing host immunity by balancing pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Abstract

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