The role of a multi-strain probiotic in very low birth weight premature infants
Date
2024-03
Authors
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Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH SUMMARY: Background: Researchers have established that the preterm neonate is born with an immature gastrointestinal tract. The preterm neonate is thus susceptible to various complications often seen in the neonatal intensive care unit, e.g. feeding intolerances, necrotising enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. These complications can be life-threatening, and if survived, can have an unfavorable effect on the neonate’s
growth and development.
Aim: The aims of this narrative review article were to provide an in-depth understanding of the various factors contributing to the development of the preterm neonatal microbiome. Further, we reviewed gastrointestinal microbiome dysbiosis and its potential role in the development of feeding intolerances, necotising enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Lastly, we described the potential role of probiotics in this vulnerable population.
Methods: A PubMed database search was conducted identifying articles that describe the development and function of the neonatal microbiome, the role of gastrointestinal dysbiosis, and the development of neonatal complications as well as the role of probiotics in gastrointestinal dysbiosis.
Results: Various maternal, neonatal, and environmental factors play a role in the development of gastrointestinal dysbiosis in the preterm neonate. This can lead to feeding intolerances, necrotising enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections.
Discussion: The pathogenesis of the development of short-term complications in the preterm neonate can be linked to the immaturity of the host immune system as well as alterations seen in the intestinal microbiome. There is a growing body of evidence that probiotics can play a role in preventing dysbiosis and thus complications observed in the preterm neonate. However, the optimal combination of probiotic strains and dosage still needs to be identified.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
Description
Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2024.