Faecal microbiota transplantation in children: A systematic review

Novel technologies offer insights into the potential role of the intestinal microbiota in human health and disease. Dysbiosis has been associated with several diseases, and it is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of different gastrointestinal diseases. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is emerging as a method to modulate the gastrointestinal microbial ecosystem. While recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection is the recognised FMT indication, exploration of other therapeutic uses is ongoing.

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review, extracting 583 articles from Embase and PubMed (index date to October 2022).

The search yielded 58 studies for full review, with 50 included in the systematic review. Articles were categorised by FMT indication, study design, efficacy, adverse events, donor selection and administration route. FMT appears safe and effective for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection, although severe adverse events are reported in children. However, there are currently insufficient data to support the use of FMT for other potential therapeutic indications (such as irritable or inflammatory bowel disease or obesity), beside the potential to decolonise multi-drug resistant organisms.

This underscores the need for randomised, controlled, prospective cohort studies in children to assess FMT effectiveness in diverse conditions and counteract publication bias.