Probiotics and mucositis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Oral and intestinal microbiota influence mucositis development and treatment.
• No definitive high-risk patient profile or universally recommended probiotic formulation exists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on probiotics as an adjuvant treatment for mucositis.
• To update the perspective on probiotic use in managing mucositis.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing clinical trials and scientific literature.
• Analysis of probiotic efficacy in various mucositis models.

Main Results:

• Lactobacillus species, especially L. reuteri, show consistent positive effects in peri-implant mucositis.
• L. brevi CD2 demonstrates potential in preventing chemoradiotherapy-related oral mucositis.
• Probiotic use appears safe, but limitations require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Probiotics may benefit specific patient groups, including those with peri-implant mucositis or at risk of treatment-related mucositis.
• Future research should focus on identifying high-risk populations for targeted probiotic interventions.
• Clinical decisions regarding probiotic use should consider clinician preference and emerging evidence.