W1389 Probiotics in Clinical Trials from 2004 to 2007: A Review of Current Literature

overall efficacy of probiotics in atopic dermatitis as well as the therapeutic benefit to subgroups of selected patient populations.Results: Ten studies were identified and included in the report (n= 605).There was a significant overall benefit for the use of probiotics in reducing the SCORAD index (mean +/-SD change from baseline -3.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.48, -1.50, p=<0.001).Lactobacillus GG was more effective than other probiotic strains or mixed preparations.Children with moderately severe disease or who were IgE sensitized were more likely to benefit.Shorter duration of probiotic administration tended to provide more benefit compared to longer duration of use.Conclusion: Data from this meta-analysis suggest a role for probiotics in pediatric atopic dermatitis.The effect is seen mostly with Lactobacillus GG, in IgE sensitized children, in moderately severe disease, and with shortterm rather than the long-term use.