Oral probiotics influence oral and respiratory tract infections in pediatric population: a randomized double-blinded...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Acute oral and respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a major global health concern, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality.
• Pediatric populations are particularly susceptible to these infections, necessitating effective preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical efficacy of oral probiotics in preventing and reducing the incidence of acute oral and respiratory tract infections in pediatric patients.
• To assess the impact of oral probiotic supplementation on key salivary parameters in children.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted.
• Forty pediatric subjects with a history of RTIs were randomized into two groups: one receiving probiotics (n=20) and a control group receiving placebo (n=20).
• Salivary examinations were performed before and during the study period.

Main Results:

• The probiotic group exhibited a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of oral and respiratory tract infections compared to the placebo group.
• While salivary flow, viscosity, and buffering capacity remained similar between groups, the probiotic group showed a trend towards more alkaline salivary pH.
• No adverse effects were reported in the probiotic group.

Conclusions:

• Oral probiotic supplementation demonstrated a clear benefit in preventing and reducing the occurrence of oral and respiratory tract infections in children.
• Probiotics offer a safe and effective alternative for managing pediatric RTIs, potentially by modulating the oral microbiome.
• Further research into the specific mechanisms underlying probiotic efficacy in pediatric RTIs is warranted.