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Probiotic Studies in Neonatal Mice Using Gavage
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Probiotic Studies in Neonatal Mice Using Gavage

Published on: January 27, 2019

Probiotics for prevention of necrotising enterocolitis: an updated meta-analysis

F Guthmann1, C Kluthe, C Bührer

  • 1Klinik für Neonatologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. florian.guthmann@charite.de

Klinische Padiatrie
|July 21, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Prophylactic probiotics significantly reduce necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and mortality in preterm infants. Studies show these beneficial bacteria are safe and effective for vulnerable newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a major cause of mortality in preterm infants.
  • Prophylactic probiotic use has been investigated to reduce NEC rates.
  • Previous meta-analyses exist, but recent trials offer updated insights.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic probiotics in preterm infants at risk for NEC.
  • To synthesize evidence from existing meta-analyses and recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
  • To determine the impact of probiotics on NEC incidence and mortality.

Main Methods:

  • Meta-analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating prophylactic probiotic use.
  • Analysis of three subgroups: common RCTs, previously included RCTs, and recent RCTs.
  • Calculation of relative risk (RR) for NEC (Bell stage ≥2) and mortality.

Main Results:

  • Consistent reduction in NEC rates (RR 0.35) and mortality (RR 0.41) across all meta-analysis approaches.
  • NEC and mortality rates align with North American and European network data.
  • Optimal outcomes observed with multi-species probiotics, including Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus acidophilus.
  • No adverse side effects reported in 1,117 infants receiving probiotics.

Conclusions:

  • Prophylactic probiotics are safe and beneficial for preterm infants at risk of NEC.
  • The use of specific probiotic combinations may enhance efficacy.
  • Evidence supports the integration of probiotics into neonatal care protocols for NEC prevention.

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