Prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis with probiotics: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Context

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most frequent gastrointestinal emergency in neonates. The microbiome of the preterm gut may regulate the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. Probiotics may positively contribute to mucosal integrity, potentially reducing the risk of NEC in neonates.

Objective

To perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of probiotics for the prevention of NEC in premature infants.

Data sources

Structured searches were performed in: Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (all via Ovid, from 2013 to January 2015). Clinical trial registries and electronically available conference materials were also searched. An updated search was conducted June 3, 2016.

Study select

SUBMITTER: Sawh SC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5068355 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature