Current Challenges in Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Clostridioides difficile Infection in Children

Am J Gastroenterol. 2021 Sep 1;116(9):1954-1956. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001350.

Abstract

Introduction: The impact of the 2019 US Food and Drug Administration safety alert involving transmission of multidrug resistant organisms through fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of FMT in children, is unknown.

Methods: A survey of pediatric gastroenterologists performing FMT for Clostridioides difficile infection was conducted.

Results: Of 36 respondents, 17 (47%) and 30 (83%) changed their FMT practices related to the US Food and Drug Administration safety alert and COVID-19 pandemic, respectively, with 22 (61%) of programs halted.

Discussion: The US Food and Drug Administration safety alert and COVID-19 pandemic have substantially influenced the availability and access of FMT for children.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Clostridium Infections / microbiology
  • Clostridium Infections / therapy*
  • Fecal Microbiota Transplantation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*
  • SARS-CoV-2 / isolation & purification*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States