Klinische Pädiatrie
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Klinische Pädiatrie · Sep 2010
Meta AnalysisProbiotics for prevention of necrotising enterocolitis: an updated meta-analysis.
Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the prophylactic use of probiotics in preterm infants aimed at reducing the rate of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). There are 4 meta-analyses on this subject. 2 more RCTs have been published since these meta-analyses were completed. Each meta-analysis, as well as the 2 recent RCTs, document reduced rates of NEC and mortality with the use of prophylactic probiotics. ⋯ Best results appear to be achieved with probiotics based on 2 or more probiotic species and/or with a combination of Bifidusbacterium spp. and Lactobacillus acidophilus. No unwanted side effects have been reported among 1 117 infants randomized to receive probiotics. We conclude that probiotics are safe and beneficial in preterm infants at risk for NEC.