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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
10:36
Probiotic Studies in Neonatal Mice Using Gavage
Published on: January 27, 2019
Bifidobacterium septicemia associated with postoperative probiotic therapy in a neonate with omphalocele
Akira Ohishi1, Shigehiro Takahashi, Yushi Ito
1Division of Neonatology, Department of Perinatal Medicine and Maternal Care, National Center for Child Health and Development (NCCHD), Tokyo, Japan.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|March 23, 2010
Insights
A rare case of sepsis occurred in a patient receiving Bifidobacterium breve probiotic therapy. This highlights the potential risk of invasive infections from probiotics, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Probiotics are widely used for gastrointestinal health.
- Bifidobacterium breve is a common probiotic species.
- Immunocompromised or critically ill patients may be at higher risk.
Observation:
- A single case of sepsis was identified.
- The sepsis was caused by Bifidobacterium breve.
- The bacterium was administered as probiotic therapy.
Findings:
- Bifidobacterium breve can act as an opportunistic pathogen.
- Probiotic administration can lead to invasive infections.
- Vulnerable patient populations require careful monitoring.
Implications:
- Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing probiotics.
- Risk-benefit assessment is crucial for probiotic use in susceptible individuals.
- Further research is needed on probiotic-related infections.
Abstract:
We report the one case of sepsis caused by Bifidobacterium breve administered as probiotic therapy. Probiotics can be a potential cause of an invasive disease and should be used with care in vulnerable patients.
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