Feasibility and efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation in adolescents with refractory irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized clinical pilot trial.
J Pediatr Gastroenterol NutrJun 1, 2026 (epub)
Clara M A de Bruijn, Anna O J Oorthuys, Judith Zeevenhooven et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in 32 adolescents aged 16-21 with refractory irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study found that allogeneic FMTs resulted in a significantly higher response rate at 24 weeks compared to autologous FMTs (60% vs. 25%, p=0.048) and improved quality of life scores.
Key findings
- One patient (3%) withdrew due to lack of effect after the first FMT.
- Response rates at 12 weeks were 40% for allogeneic and 38% for autologous FMTs (p=0.886).
- At 24 weeks, response rates were 60% for allogeneic vs. 25% for autologous FMTs (p=0.048).
- School/work absenteeism was 7% for allogeneic FMTs vs. 41% for autologous FMTs at 24 weeks (p=0.037).
Why it matters
The findings suggest that allogeneic FMT may be a viable treatment option for adolescents with refractory IBS, potentially leading to improved clinical outcomes and quality of life. This could influence treatment strategies in this patient population.