Probiotics in late infancy reduce the incidence of eczema: A randomized controlled trial

Rikke Meineche Schmidt, Rikke Pilmann Laursen, Signe Bruun, Anni Larnkjær, Christian Mølgaard, Kim F. Michaelsen, Arne Høst

Publikation: Bidrag til tidsskriftTidsskriftartikelForskningpeer review

59 Citationer (Scopus)
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Abstract

Background: Allergic diseases are common and represent a considerable health and economic burden worldwide. We aimed to examine the effect of a combination of two probiotic strains administered in late infancy and early childhood on the development of allergic diseases and sensitization.

Methods: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled intervention trial, participants were randomized to receive a daily mixture of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis or placebo-starting prior to attending day care. The intervention period was 6 months, and the parents answered web-based questionnaires on allergic symptoms and doctor's diagnosed allergic disease monthly. IgE was measured at baseline and follow-up.

Results: A total of 290 participants were randomized: 144 in the probiotic group and 146 in the placebo group. Mean age at intervention start was 10.1 months. At follow-up (mean age 16.1 months), the incidence of eczema was 4.2% in the probiotic group and 11.5% in the placebo group (P = 0.036). The incidence of asthma and conjunctivitis did not differ between groups, and no children presented with rhinitis. Sensitization was equal in the two groups at intervention start (7.5% and 9.5%, respectively), and two children in each group were sensitized during the intervention.

Conclusions: We observed a significantly lower incidence of eczema in the probiotic group compared to the placebo group. The probiotics were administered in late infancy-prior to attending day care-suggesting a broader window of opportunity using probiotics in the prevention of eczema. The incidence of asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and sensitization did not differ.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftPediatric Allergy and Immunology
Vol/bind30
Udgave nummer3
Sider (fra-til)335-340
Antal sider6
ISSN0906-5784
DOI
StatusUdgivet - 2019

Bibliografisk note

CURIS 2019 NEXS 070
© 2019 EAACI and John Wiley and Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Emneord

  • Det Natur- og Biovidenskabelige Fakultet

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