Probiotics in the treatment and prevention of food allergy - Systematic review

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review was designed to assess the evidence from randomized controlled trials on efficacy of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of food allergy in infants and children. SEARCH STRATEGY: Electronic searches using predefined set of key words of the MEDLINE, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and previous reviews including cross reference. Selection criteria: Randomized double blind controlled trials comparing a specified probiotic agents to placebo or no probiotic in infants and children in the treatment and prevention of food allergy. MAIN RESULTS: Treatment. Two therapeutic randomized trials involving 64 infants were identified. None provided details on a method of randomization and blinding. These preliminary data suggest the efficacy of Lactobacillus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12 in reducing the intensity and extension of the atopic dermatitis in infants with food allergy. Prophylaxis. Based on the single trial of high methodological quality prophylactic administration of Lactobacillus GG was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of atopic dermatitis at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: There is some evidence of a clinically significant benefit of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of food allergy, but better and larger trials are needed.