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Therapeutic Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Interleukin 10-Deficient Mouse Model
Published on: April 6, 2022
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: Information for the Pediatrician
Maria Oliva-Hemker1, Stacy A Kahn2, William J Steinbach3
1Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
Abstract:
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) involves the delivery of an entire microbial community from a healthy donor to a recipient with the intention of ameliorating or curing a specific disease. Current evidence strongly supports a role for FMT in the treatment of Clostridiodes difficile infection, with cure rates of approximately 80% to 90%. This success has led to increasing attention for FMT as a potential therapeutic intervention for other conditions associated with disturbances of the intestinal microbiome, including inflammatory bowel diseases, autism spectrum disorder, and obesity. This clinical report endorses the joint society statement by the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, and the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and is meant to provide the general pediatrician with a broad overview to enable appropriate guidance to families seeking FMT as treatment of a child's condition.
Insights
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) effectively treats C. difficile infections. This therapy shows promise for other microbiome-related conditions, guiding pediatricians on its use in children.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) transfers a complete microbial community to a recipient.
- FMT is highly effective for treating Clostridiodes difficile infection, with 80-90% cure rates.
- Growing interest exists in FMT for conditions linked to gut microbiome imbalances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide pediatricians with an overview of FMT.
- To guide families considering FMT for pediatric conditions.
- To endorse joint society statements on FMT.
Main Methods:
- Clinical report summarizing current evidence and expert consensus.
- Focus on FMT for pediatric conditions.
- Guidance for general pediatricians.
Main Results:
- FMT demonstrates high efficacy in treating C. difficile infections.
- FMT is being explored for inflammatory bowel diseases, autism spectrum disorder, and obesity.
- Evidence supports FMT's role in restoring gut microbiome balance.
Conclusions:
- FMT is a proven treatment for C. difficile infection.
- Further research is warranted for FMT in other pediatric conditions.
- Pediatricians should be prepared to counsel families on FMT.
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