Probiotic May Help Prevent Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
As prophylaxis against ventilator-associated pneumonia, the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum 299 (Lp299) is as effective as the antiseptic chlorhexidine in reducing the pathogenic bacterial load in the oropharynx of tracheally intubated, mechanically ventilated, critically ill patients, results of a pilot study indicate.
Comment: Using Lp299 in oral decontamination procedures is “microbiologically attractive.” “As the bacteria adhere to the oral mucosa, they are able to counteract potentially pathogenic bacteria around the clock, which is superior to the fairly short-term effect of orally applied chemical agents,”
Klarin B, Molin G, Jeppsson B, Larsson A. Use of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum 299 to reduce pathogenic bacteria in the oropharynx of intubated patients: a randomised controlled open pilot study. Crit Care. 2008;12(6):R136. Epub 2008 Nov 6. View Abstract View Full Paper
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Keywords:prevention, probiotics
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The immune system is prone to the same grave misfortunes as any defense system handling weapons: collateral damage that comes with the destruction of the enemy on one’s own territory and friendly fire due to mistaken identity. Whereas the collateral damage is the price we pay for clearance of infections, autoimmunity is a pathological process. Nevertheless, the effector mechanisms involved in both processes are the same. Whether environment can be a cause, a trigger or an amplifier of an autoimmune disease are questions that are being intensively investigated.
