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Human bocavirus in the nasopharynx of otitis-prone children

Liisa Lehtoranta1, Maria Söderlund-Venermo, Johanna Nokso-Koivisto

  • 1Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Helsinki, PO Box 63, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland.

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|November 29, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Human bocavirus (HBoV) is common in otitis-prone children and can persist for months. Probiotic treatment may reduce HBoV presence, offering a potential preventative strategy for respiratory infections.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Human bocavirus (HBoV) is linked to respiratory infections in children.
  • The role of HBoV and related bocaviruses (HBoV2-4) in acute otitis media (AOM) is under investigation.
  • Probiotics show potential in reducing viral-induced AOM.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and persistence of HBoV1-4 in nasopharyngeal samples of otitis-prone children.
  • To explore associations between HBoV and child characteristics, symptoms, and AOM pathogens.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in reducing HBoV occurrence.

Main Methods:

  • A 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial involving 269 otitis-prone children.
  • Daily administration of a probiotic or placebo.
  • RT-qPCR analysis of nasopharyngeal samples at baseline, 3, and 6 months to detect HBoV DNA.

Main Results:

  • HBoV DNA was detected in 17.1% of children, with 10.5% showing prolonged presence (≥3 months).
  • HBoV2-4 DNA was not detected.
  • Probiotic intervention significantly reduced HBoV DNA-positive samples compared to placebo (6.4% vs. 19.0%).

Conclusions:

  • HBoV DNA is frequently found in the nasopharynx of otitis-prone children and can persist.
  • Probiotic treatment appears to reduce HBoV presence, suggesting a potential therapeutic role.

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