[Indication selection and clinical application strategies of fecal microbiota transplantation]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is a proven treatment for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection.
• Emerging evidence suggests FMT efficacy for various gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal conditions.
• Standardized protocols for FMT are currently lacking, hindering widespread clinical adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss critical, often controversial, aspects of FMT.
• To provide insights into optimizing FMT strategies based on clinical experience.
• To highlight areas needing standardization for safe and effective FMT implementation.

Main Methods:

• Review of current clinical practices and literature.
• Discussion of key FMT components: indications, donor selection, sample preparation, administration methods, and monitoring.
• Analysis of adverse event management and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• FMT is effective for recurrent C. difficile infection and shows promise in other diseases.
• Significant variability exists in FMT protocols regarding donor screening, sample processing, and administration.
• Standardization is needed for quality control, efficacy assessment, and ethical oversight.

Conclusions:

• FMT is a valuable therapeutic option with expanding applications beyond C. difficile infection.
• Addressing current controversies and establishing uniform standards are crucial for advancing FMT.
• Further research and consensus are required to optimize FMT protocols and ensure patient safety.