An Infectious Diseases Perspective on Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Clostridioides difficile Infection in Children. (24th September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cotter, Jillian M; Nicholson, Maribeth R; Kociolek, Larry K
• Is Part Of: Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. Volume 8:Number 6(2019)
• Page Start: 580
• Page End: 584
• Publication Date: 2019-09-24
• Subjects: Clostridium difficile -- Clostridioides difficile -- fecal microbiota transplantation -- safety -- screening; Communicable diseases in children -- Periodicals; Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.929
• DOI: 10.1093/jpids/piz062
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2048-7193

Abstract

Abstract: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is efficacious for treatment of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (rCDIs). Pediatric experience with FMT for rCDIs is increasing, particularly at large centers. While retrospective studies suggest that FMT is generally safe in the short term, particularly in immunocompetent patients and with rigorous donor screening, additional large prospective studies are needed. This particularly includes those at high risk for infectious complications, such as immunocompromised hosts. Further, long-term implications of altering the intestinal microbiome with FMT are not well understood. The role of FMT in children, particularly in high-risk patients, will require continual reexamination with future availability of pediatric safety and efficacy data. This review summarizes key points for infectious diseases physicians to consider when evaluating a child for FMT. Abstract : Retrospective studies in children suggest that fecal microbiota transplantation is effective and generally safe. However, additional large prospective studies are needed, particularly in immunocompromised hosts. Furthermore, the long-term implications of altering the intestinal microbiome in children are not well understood.