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Probiotic-associated aspiration pneumonia due to Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Christopher D Doern1, Sean T Nguyen2, Folashade Afolabi3

  • 1Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Department of Pathology, Richmond, Virginia, USA cdoern@mcvh-vcu.edu.

Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|June 6, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Lactobacillus rhamnosus administration led to bacterial superinfection in an infant with trisomy 21 and RSV bronchiolitis. This case highlights potential risks of probiotics in immunocompromised infants.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Lactobacilli are commensal organisms found in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts.
  • These bacteria are frequently administered as probiotic supplements.
  • Probiotics are generally considered low-virulence organisms.

Observation:

  • An 11-month-old female infant with trisomy 21 was diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis.
  • The infant had received Lactobacillus rhamnosus as a probiotic supplement.
  • The infant developed a secondary bacterial superinfection.

Findings:

  • The bacterial superinfection was directly linked to the administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
  • This suggests a potential complication of probiotic use in specific patient populations.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the need for caution when administering probiotic supplements to infants, particularly those with underlying conditions like trisomy 21.
  • Further research is warranted to understand the risks and benefits of probiotics in vulnerable pediatric populations.
  • Healthcare providers should carefully consider the potential for adverse events when prescribing probiotics.

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