Faecal microbiota transplantation for Clostridium difficile infection using a lyophilized inoculum from non-related donors: A case series involving 19 patients

Acta Microbiol Immunol Hung. 2019 Mar 1;66(1):69-78. doi: 10.1556/030.64.2017.042. Epub 2017 Dec 14.

Abstract

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been reported to be effective in treating relapsing of refractory Clostridium difficile infections, although some practical barriers are limiting its widespread use. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the rate of resolution of diarrhea following administration of lyophilized and resolved FMT via a nasogastric (NG) tube. We recruited 19 patients suffered from laboratory-confirmed C. difficile infection. Each of them was treated by lyophilized and resolved inoculum through a NG tube. One participant succumbed following the procedure due to unrelated diseases. Out of 18 cases, 15 patients reportedly experienced a resolution of the symptoms. One patient was treated with another course of antibiotics, and two of the non-responders were successfully retreated with another course of FMT utilizing a lyophilized inoculum. Notably, no significant adverse activities were observed. In accordance to our clinical experiences, a patient will likely benefit from FMT treatment including lyophilized inoculum.

Keywords: infection; faecal microbiota transplantation; lyophilization; nasogastric tube.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Clostridium Infections / therapy*
  • Diarrhea / therapy
  • Fecal Microbiota Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Fecal Microbiota Transplantation / methods*
  • Female
  • Freeze Drying*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Tissue Donors*
  • Treatment Outcome