Probiotic Interventions in Systemic Sclerosis Patients: A Systematic Review and Future Prospects
Zahra Mirfeizi1, Mahmoud Mahmoudi2,3, Marzieh Monemi4
1Rheumatology Department, Rheumatic Diseases Research Center Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Mashhad Iran.
Health Science Reports
|April 17, 2025
Summary
Probiotics show potential in managing gastrointestinal issues and immune responses for Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients. Further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness in this autoimmune disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular issues.
- Gastrointestinal problems are common complications in patients with Systemic Sclerosis.
- There is a need for novel therapeutic strategies to manage SSc complications and improve patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential therapeutic role of probiotics in managing gastrointestinal symptoms in Systemic Sclerosis.
- To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of probiotics in the context of Systemic Sclerosis.
- To review the current evidence on probiotic interventions for SSc patients.
Main Methods:
- An extensive literature search was conducted up to October 2023.
- Databases searched included Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Scopus.
- The review included non-randomized observational studies and randomized clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Four articles were identified that investigated the impact of probiotics on Systemic Sclerosis.
- Preliminary findings suggest probiotics may modulate immune responses in SSc.
- Evidence indicates potential efficacy of probiotics in improving gastrointestinal symptoms for SSc patients.
Conclusions:
- Probiotics may offer a beneficial approach for managing gastrointestinal symptoms and immune responses in Systemic Sclerosis.
- The current evidence base is limited, necessitating further investigation.
- Rigorous randomized controlled trials are required to validate the effectiveness of probiotics in SSc.
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