Press reviews


Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a common complication in minor surgeries, significantly impacting patient recovery. In the context of rising antibiotic resistance, exploring innovative prophylactic approaches, such as the use of clindamycin, is becoming increasingly crucial.

This study examines the effectiveness of clindamycin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, in reducing bacterial load as a prophylactic measure to prevent SSIs.

Towards more targeted prophylaxis for surgical site infections?

A sample of patients undergoing minor surgery was included in the study and divided into two groups:
  • A group receiving antibiotic prophylaxis with clindamycin.
  • A group following standard care practices without antibiotics.

The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed by evaluating the following outcome variables: bacterial load in tissues, SSI incidence, tolerance profile, and adverse effects related to the antibiotic.

The research first demonstrates that clindamycin significantly reduces bacterial load, particularly in high-risk patients (advanced age, complex wounds, or specific anatomical locations). However, while this reduction is statistically significant, data on its clinical impact on SSI prevention remain mixed. Finally, clindamycin's tolerance profile is favorable, with adverse effect rates similar to those of placebo.


Clindamycin: a promising tool in postoperative infection prevention

The results of this study highlight clindamycin's efficacy in significantly reducing bacterial load, a key factor in preventing SSIs. This reduction is especially relevant for high-risk patients. Although these findings are encouraging, they emphasize the importance of precisely targeting antibiotic treatment indications to maximize benefits while minimizing the risks associated with bacterial resistance.

Read more

Source(s) :
Heal, C., et al. (2024). Clindamycin and bacterial load reduction as prophylaxis for surgical site infection after below-knee flap and graft procedures: A trial protocol. Australian Journal of General Practice, 53(11). ;

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. Despite therapeutic advances, particularly through the combination of surgery and chemotherapy, two major challenges persist: treatment resistance and tumor recurrence. Addressing these limitations, an innovative strategy has emerged: combining the inhibition of O-GlcNAcylation, a key post-translational modification, with reduced doses of chemotherapy. The goal? To redirect cancer cell responses toward apoptosis, a process that promotes their elimination, rather than senescence, which fosters relapse and cancer progression.  

This study investigates whether O-GlcNAcylation inhibition can enhance the efficacy and safety of colorectal cancer treatments.  

O-GlcNAcylation inhibition: a promising strategy to redirect colorectal cancer treatments?  

To evaluate this approach, researchers studied two complementary models: colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT116 and LS174T) and organoids derived from human tumors. The cells were exposed to subtoxic doses of SN38, an active metabolite of irinotecan, in combination with specific O-GlcNAcylation inhibitors (e.g., OSMI-4).  

Key Point:
Irinotecan is an anticancer drug primarily used in colorectal cancer treatment, often in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. It belongs to the class of topoisomerase I inhibitors, a key enzyme involved in DNA replication and transcription.
 

The study focused on key criteria to assess the efficacy of this approach, including markers of apoptosis and senescence.

Results show that senescence induced by SN38 is associated with a decrease in O-GlcNAcylation levels. Notably, O-GlcNAcylation inhibition leads to a significant increase in DNA damage and a cellular response shift from senescence to apoptosis, thereby promoting the elimination of tumor cells. Finally, tests on patient-derived organoids confirm the specificity and efficacy of this strategy on cancer cells, with no major toxic effects on healthy tissues, highlighting its potential for clinical applications.
 

O-GlcNAcylation inhibition: an innovative approach to transform colorectal cancer treatment  

This study opens major avenues for optimizing colorectal cancer treatment. Using O-GlcNAcylation inhibitors combined with reduced doses of chemotherapy not only minimizes side effects associated with conventional treatments but also lowers the risk of recurrence by eliminating senescent cells through apoptosis. These findings encourage broader clinical applications to validate this strategy and explore potential synergy with other inhibitors targeting cellular metabolism. This personalized approach could revolutionize current therapeutic strategies by enhancing treatment efficacy and specificity while improving patient survival outcomes.

Read more

Source(s) :
Loison, I., et al. (2024). O-GlcNAcylation inhibition redirects the response of colon cancer cells to chemotherapy from senescence to apoptosis. Cell Death & Disease, 15(10), 762 ;

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat, causing nearly 5 million deaths in 2019. Given the urgency, identifying new treatments is more critical than ever. In this context, BWC0977, a bacterial topoisomerase inhibitor, emerges as an innovative therapeutic candidate effective against pathogens resistant to conventional treatments. With a broad spectrum of activity and demonstrated tolerability in clinical trials, it offers concrete solutions for critical infections.

This study examines the efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential of BWC0977 in treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens.

How does BWC0977 address multidrug-resistant infections?

The efficacy of BWC0977 has been evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro, the drug was tested against multidrug-resistant pathogens such as E. coli, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii, following CLSI standards to measure MIC90 and compare it with reference antibiotics. In vivo, murine and pulmonary models assessed its ability to reduce bacterial loads. Finally, clinical trials verified its tolerability and pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers.

In vitro tests revealed an MIC90 ranging from 0.03 to 2 µg/mL, demonstrating superior efficacy compared to reference antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and meropenem. In vivo studies further showed significant reductions in bacterial loads, with particularly high concentrations of BWC0977 observed in pulmonary epithelial fluids—an essential advantage for respiratory infections. Clinical trials confirmed good tolerability and dose-proportional pharmacokinetics, validating its promising profile for advanced clinical development.


BWC0977: A valuable tool against AMR

BWC0977 stands out as a key solution for critical hospital infections, including pneumonia and bacteremia. With sustained activity against strains resistant to fluoroquinolones and colistin, and high concentrations in pulmonary epithelial fluids, it holds great promise for applications such as respiratory infections linked to cystic fibrosis and targeting priority pathogens. Current efforts focus on improving its formulation to minimize injection-site reactions, while broader clinical validation could soon establish BWC0977 as a major reference in combating emerging resistance.

Read more

Source(s) :
Hameed P, S., et al. (2024). BWC0977, a broad-spectrum antibacterial clinical candidate to treat multidrug resistant infections. Nature Communications, 15(1), 8202 ;

Cancer cachexia is a common and severe cancer complication characterized by significant weight and muscle loss, often associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Recent research highlights the central role of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) in its pathophysiology. Ponsegromab, a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting and inhibiting GDF-15, has shown promising effects, including increased body weight, improved appetite and physical activity, and reduced serum GDF-15 levels. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of ponsegromab in treating cancer cachexia.

Can ponsegromab transform cancer cachexia management?

A total of 187 patients with cancer cachexia and elevated GDF-15 levels were included in the study. Participants were divided into four groups:
  • Ponsegromab treatment at three doses (100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg)
  • Placebo group

The primary endpoint was body weight change. Secondary endpoints included appetite, cachexia symptoms, physical activity, and treatment safety.

The results show that patients treated with ponsegromab experienced significant weight gain compared to the placebo group. Significant improvements in appetite and reductions in cachexia-related symptoms were also observed, particularly in patients receiving the 400 mg dose. Additionally, non-sedentary physical activity increased in this group. The safety profile was favorable, with comparable rates of adverse events between the ponsegromab and placebo groups.


Ponsegromab: a promising new therapeutic pathway for cancer cachexia

This study demonstrates that ponsegromab significantly improves weight, cachexia symptoms, and physical activity, confirming the central role of GDF-15 as a therapeutic target. This treatment offers a promising option for patients with cancer cachexia. However, further research is necessary to validate these results and assess their long-term sustainability.  

Read more

Source(s) :
Groarke, J. D., et al. (2024). Ponsegromab for the treatment of cancer cachexia. New England Journal of Medicine ;

2024-11-22

Diabetic Neuropathy: A Nutritional Supplement Cocktail to Relieve Pain?

Endocrinology and Metabolism Neurology

Diabetic neuropathy (DN), a common and debilitating complication of type 2 diabetes, is characterized by chronic pain that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Available treatments, such as pregabalin or duloxetine, provide limited efficacy and are often associated with significant side effects. In light of these challenges, identifying complementary solutions is critical to better managing symptoms. A recent study proposes an innovative alternative: a nutritional supplement cocktail aimed at reducing neuropathic pain and restoring nerve function.

A promising cocktail for neuropathic pain relief?

The study included 73 adult patients with type 2 diabetes and moderate DN symptoms. Participants were divided into two groups:
  • Active group: supplementation with a cocktail containing palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), superoxide dismutase, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamins (B1, B6, B12, E, and nicotinamide), magnesium, and zinc.
  • Placebo group: supplementation without active ingredients.
The effectiveness of this novel treatment was evaluated before and after six months of supplementation, focusing on the following outcomes: pain intensity, nerve function (sural conduction velocity and action potential amplitude), vibratory perception threshold, sudomotor function, disease-related quality of life, and neurological assessments (MNSIQ and MNSIE).

The results revealed a significant reduction in pain in the active group, along with notable improvements in nerve function: increased vitamin B12 levels, better MNSIQ scores, enhanced vibratory perception thresholds, and improved electrodermal conductance in the feet. In contrast, the placebo group showed no significant progress, and a deterioration in MNSIQ scores was observed.

An innovative approach to neuropathic pain

This study demonstrates that a nutritional supplement cocktail, including PEA and vitamin B12, can effectively reduce neuropathic pain and improve certain functional markers in patients with diabetic neuropathy. While these results are promising, they require validation through larger-scale studies to establish this approach as an effective complement to conventional treatments. The variability in symptom improvement suggests that baseline pain severity may influence treatment outcomes.

Read more

Source(s) :
Didangelos, T., et al. (2024). Efficacy and Safety of the Combination of Palmitoylethanolamide [...] for 6 Months in People with Diabetic Neuropathy. Nutrients, 16(18), 3045. ;

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and challenging subtype of breast cancer characterized by poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Conventional therapies, primarily based on chemotherapy, often prove ineffective and are associated with significant side effects. Against this backdrop, the emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), such as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, has opened new avenues for treatment. These therapies stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells and are generating growing interest. However, their precise role in the management of TNBC remains to be fully elucidated. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of ICIs in treating unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic TNBC.

ICIs: A revolution in TNBC treatment?

To explore this hypothesis, 11 randomized clinical trials involving a total of 4,314 patients with unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic TNBC were selected. The efficacy of the treatment was assessed by analyzing the following outcomes: overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs). Subgroup analyses were also conducted for PD-L1-positive patients to examine differences in response.

The findings demonstrate that PD-L1 inhibitors significantly improve OS in both the intention-to-treat and PD-L1-positive populations. Additionally, PFS also increased in these groups.


While immunotherapies were associated with an increase in immune-mediated adverse events (such as hypothyroidism, skin rashes, and pneumonitis), the incidence of severe events was not higher than with chemotherapy alone.


Finally, combining ICIs with chemotherapy showed superior clinical benefits compared to monotherapy, further reinforcing their relevance in managing TNBC.


A new hope in the fight against tnbc

This study confirms the potential of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors to transform the treatment landscape for advanced TNBC, particularly in PD-L1-positive patients. While these findings suggest that immunotherapy could become a cornerstone strategy for managing TNBC, challenges remain. These include optimizing its use, managing adverse effects, and identifying predictive biomarkers.

 

Read more

Source(s) :
Wang, Z., et al. (2024). PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple negative breast cancer: a meta-analysis on their efficacy and safety. BMC cancer, 24(1), 1-17. ;

Down syndrome (trisomy 21) is a chromosomal anomaly associated with physiological characteristics that can affect responses to analgesics and sedatives. Postoperative pain and sedation management for these patients thus present a significant challenge for healthcare professionals. This is further complicated by conflicting findings from earlier studies regarding opioid and benzodiazepine requirements in these children. This study examines the specific needs for analgesia and sedation in this population.  

What Are the Analgesic and Sedative Needs of Children with Down Syndrome?  

This study analyzed 17 trials involving 730 children divided into two groups:
  • Patients with Down syndrome (N=298)
  • Control group (N=235)

The primary endpoint was the dose of oral morphine equivalents (OME) administered post-surgery, alongside an evaluation of benzodiazepine needs and the duration of mechanical ventilation.  

The findings reveal no statistically significant differences in opioid or benzodiazepine requirements between children with Down syndrome and their peers. Similarly, the duration of mechanical ventilation was comparable between the two groups. These results suggest that analgesic and sedative needs are similar for both groups, challenging the preconceived notion of increased sensitivity in children with Down syndrome.
 

Similar Needs in Analgesia and Sedation  

Contrary to widespread assumptions, this study demonstrates that children with Down syndrome do not have greater postoperative analgesia or sedation needs than other children. These findings underscore the importance of standardized and tailored care, avoiding the routine use of higher doses. This study advocates for more precise and safe management of patients with Down syndrome following surgery. Future research, including randomized trials, is necessary to confirm these observations and refine therapeutic strategies.  

Read more

Source(s) :
Alsulami, S., et al. (2024). Opioid and benzodiazepine requirements in critically ill post-surgical children with down syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC pediatrics, 24(1), 504. ;

2024-11-20

Mobile applications: a revolution in diabetes management?

Endocrinology and Metabolism

Diabetes is a complex chronic condition that requires strict management to prevent complications and maintain optimal quality of life. In this context, mobile health applications have emerged as digital allies in managing the disease. These tools promise to revolutionize glucose monitoring, optimize diet and therapeutic education, and improve patients' quality of life. However, the precise efficacy and acceptability of these applications remain to be thoroughly evaluated. This study explores the use of these technological tools for diabetes management in adult patients.  

Can mobile applications play a role in diabetes management?  


Thirteen studies were reviewed to characterize the current use of mobile applications by diabetic patients and their potential future impact.  

The study highlights several key advantages of mobile applications in diabetes management, including better glycemic control, a structured approach to tracking physical activity and diet, as well as simplified communication with healthcare professionals.
 

The findings reveal that 35% of patients currently use a mobile application to manage their diabetes, with significant regional variations (15% to 55%). Moreover, over 57% of participants expressed interest in adopting these tools in the future. However, nearly 40% of surveyed patients expressed doubts about the effectiveness of mobile applications in managing their condition.
 

A digital future for diabetes management  


The study demonstrates that a significant proportion of diabetes patients use mobile applications and that interest in these tools is high. While mobile applications provide valuable technological support, redefining standards in diabetes management, the substantial variability among studies underscores the need to develop more effective and user-friendly applications tailored to individual patient needs.    

Read more

Source(s) :
Birhanu, T. E., et al. (2024). A mobile health application use among diabetes mellitus patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 15, 1481410 ;

Recurrent labial herpes (RLH), caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), affects 20% to 40% of young adults. Although often self-limiting, RLH causes bothersome symptoms such as pain and vesicular lesions. The standard treatment, based on the application of acyclovir cream, is limited by its poor penetration into subcutaneous tissues and partial efficacy, prompting increasing interest in complementary therapies. This study investigates the use of photobiomodulation (PBMT) as an adjunct to conventional treatment.  

Can Photobiomodulation be considered for the treatment of labial herpes?


To assess the effectiveness of PBMT as a complement to acyclovir, 22 patients with RLH were selected and divided into two groups:  

  • PBMT + Acyclovir Group: Application of acyclovir cream combined with low-level laser therapy (940 nm, 4 J/cm²).
  • Control Group: Acyclovir cream combined with sham laser treatment.

The treatment's effectiveness was measured by evaluating the following variables: pain (via a visual analog scale), lesion size, and patient satisfaction (assessed before treatment and on days 1, 3, 7, and 10 after the intervention).  

The analysis of the study results demonstrated:
  • A significant reduction in pain as early as the second day post-treatment in the PBMT group (p < 0.001).
  • A notable decrease in lesion size on the 7th and 10th days in the PBMT group (p < 0.05).
  • Higher patient satisfaction in the group receiving the combined therapy (p = 0.008).

Learn More. PBMT works by stimulating cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing, thereby enhancing the efficacy of acyclovir.  

PBMT and Acyclovir: A promising combination for herpes treatment  


By significantly reducing pain intensity and lesion size, PBMT combined with acyclovir emerges as a promising adjunct therapy for the treatment of RLH. Further research is needed to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety, elucidate its antiviral mechanisms, and develop even more effective strategies for improved patient care in RLH.

Read more

Source(s) :
Seyyedi, S. A., et al. (2024). Efficacy of adjuvant photobiomodulation therapy in recurrent herpes labialis, a randomized clinical trial study. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, 49, 104282 ;

Prolonged exposure to air pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and ozone (O₃), is increasingly linked to higher health risks, particularly concerning mortality. These gases, primarily emitted by road traffic and industrial activities, exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, posing a major public health challenge. This study reexamines the long-term health effects of these pollutants, with a focus on mortality rates.

Effects of NO₂ and O₃ Exposure on Mortality


Drawing on epidemiological cohorts with decades of data, this study assessed the impact of long-term exposure to NO₂ and O₃ on mortality. Statistical models were employed to integrate and analyze the data and to assess result heterogeneity.

The study first demonstrates that an increase of 10 µg/m³ in NO₂ concentration is associated with a heightened risk of all-cause mortality. Significant associations were also observed between NO₂ exposure and specific diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) and acute respiratory infections.


Regarding O₃, annual exposure is correlated with increased mortality from respiratory diseases, although its overall impact on mortality is less pronounced.

Finally, the study highlights marked geographical heterogeneity, with more severe impacts observed in the Western Pacific region, where pollution levels are particularly high, compared to Europe and the Americas.


A silent threat to public health


The findings of this study confirm the undeniable link between prolonged exposure to air pollutants and a significant increase in mortality, underscoring the urgency of a proactive collective response. For healthcare professionals, these findings are not just a call to vigilance but also an opportunity to take a leading role in combating the health impacts of pollution. They must play a pivotal role in risk prevention by raising awareness among patients and recommending preventive strategies.

Read more

Source(s) :
Kasdagli, M. I., et al. (2024). Long-Term Exposure to Nitrogen Dioxide and Ozone and Mortality: Update of the WHO Air Quality Guidelines Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Public Health, 69, 1607676. ;

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Among recent advancements, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have revolutionized the treatment of this disease in patients with oncogenic mutations. However, the emergence of resistance to TKIs limits their long-term effectiveness. Consequently, identifying new therapies is crucial, and one potential solution lies in combining TKIs with thoracic radiotherapy (RT). This approach aims to prolong survival while maintaining a favorable safety profile. This study examines the benefits of this combined strategy.  

Combining TKIs and radiotherapy: efficacy and side effects  


Twelve studies, including 2,936 patients with NSCLC harboring oncogenic mutations, were selected. The effects of TKIs alone were compared to their combination with thoracic RT. Progression-free survival (mPFS), overall survival (mOS), and adverse effects (AEs) were evaluated to assess treatment efficacy.  

This study demonstrates that combining TKIs with RT provides notable clinical advantages. The data show a significant increase in mPFS, particularly when this combination is used as a first-line treatment. Similarly, mOS is significantly improved, confirming the potential of this strategy to extend patients' lifespans.

However, the study also highlights that the TKI-RT combination carries an increased risk of AEs, although the severity of these side effects is comparable to those observed with TKIs alone. Adverse effects related to RT mainly include pneumonitis (41.3%, with a severity rate of 4.5%), esophagitis (15.4%, severe in 6.2% of cases), and radiodermatitis (11.1%).
 

TKIs and radiotherapy: promising perspectives despite challenges


This study underscores the promising potential of the TKI-RT combination for NSCLC treatment. By extending both progression-free and overall survival, this approach redefines the standards of care. However, it also highlights the importance of close monitoring to mitigate adverse effects while maximizing clinical benefits. Further research is required to refine and optimize treatment protocols and better understand the mechanisms underlying this therapeutic synergy, paving the way for even more personalized medicine. 

Read more

Source(s) :
Li, W., et al. (2024). Efficacy and safety of tyrosine kinase inhibitors with thoracic radiotherapy for patients with oncogene-mutated non-small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis. Radiation Oncology (London, England), 19, 154 ;

Prostate cancer (PCA) is the second most common cancer among men worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise. While genetic factors and age play a role, the influence of environmental factors, including diet, remains to be clarified. Among the preventive strategies studied, soy-based products, rich in isoflavones, stand out for their protective potential. However, conflicting results from existing studies justify a deeper analysis. This study examined the association between soy consumption and PCA risk.  

Soy Products and Prostate Cancer: A Complex Relationship to Unravel


A total of 22 observational studies involving more than 1.4 million participants were selected to evaluate the relationship between soy consumption and PCA risk. The primary evaluation criterion was the relative risk (OR) of PCA based on soy product consumption. The following parameters were considered: level and frequency of soy product consumption, type of soy product (fermented vs. non-fermented), cancer stage, and participants' ethnic origin.
 

The results highlight the following points:
  • Soy consumption reduces the risk of PCA by 6%.
  • The protective effect is more pronounced in cases of localized or low-grade prostate cancer (OR = 0.94, p < 0.001).
  • Daily consumption (≥1 time/day) is associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer (OR = 0.80, p = 0.038).
  • Non-fermented soy products are linked to a significant reduction in prostate cancer risk (OR = 0.93, p < 0.001).
  • The protective effect of soy products varies depending on participants' ethnic origin.
 
Insights into the Mechanism. Soy isoflavones possess antioxidant and anti-androgenic properties. They modulate key pathways (AKT, MAPK), regulate the cell cycle, and promote apoptosis in cancer cells. Variations in effects based on ethnic origin may be explained by gene-environment interactions.  

Soy and Cancer Prevention: A Complex Impact to Further Investigate


This study highlights the protective potential of soy-based products, particularly non-fermented soy products, against PCA. However, the impact varies according to the type of product, consumption frequency, cancer stage, and ethnic origin, complicating general conclusions. Further research, including long-term studies and exploration of underlying mechanisms, is needed to confirm these findings and tailor dietary recommendations to individual needs. Haut du formulaire Bas du formulaire.

Read more

Source(s) :
Huang, Y., et al. (2024). Association between soy products and prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Investigative and Clinical Urology, 65. ;

Childhood pneumonia remains a major public health concern. Despite advancements in medical treatments and vaccination programs that have reduced the incidence of severe cases, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) continues to be a leading cause of pediatric hospitalizations. In light of this, exploring new therapeutic strategies is essential to enhance treatments and prevent severe complications. This study investigates the efficacy of novel therapeutic approaches for treating CAP.

Amoxicillin as a First-Line Treatment for Childhood Pneumonia?


A series of studies published between 2012 and 2024 involving children over 3 months old were analyzed. The following therapies were evaluated:

  • Amoxicillin, administered in 2 to 3 daily doses, as a first-line treatment.
  • Amoxicillin-clavulanate or cephalosporins for children who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated against H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae. 

The findings suggest that an optimal treatment duration of 5 days, with clinical reevaluation after 72 hours, allows for tailored prescriptions and ensures a high symptom resolution rate. Additionally, simplified regimens significantly reduce side effects, such as fever and respiratory issues, leading to improved treatment adherence.  

Promising Advances in Pediatric Care


This study provides a robust foundation for refining pediatric pneumonia treatment through personalized approaches based on patients’ age and vaccination status. It also confirms that shorter treatment courses are as effective as longer ones, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance while improving adherence. These findings pave the way for more targeted, less burdensome therapies for children, simplifying the management of this common respiratory infection.
 

Read more

Source(s) :
Donà, D., et al (2024). Treatment of mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia in previously healthy children: an Italian intersociety consensus (SIPPS-SIP-SITIP-FIMP-SIAIP-SIMRI-FIMMG-SIMG). Italian Journal of Pediatrics, 50(1), 1-27. ;

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is a common respiratory infection in children, often associated with severe complications and a high risk of mortality. The refractory form of this disease, refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP), resists standard macrolide treatments and presents with persistent and severe symptoms. Identifying new therapeutic solutions is therefore a priority.  

To address these challenges, the combination of azithromycin with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) has emerged as a promising strategy for the effective treatment of RMPP. This study evaluates the latest evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of this combined approach.  

Azithromycin-IVIG Combination: Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy?  


Fifteen studies, including 1,142 children, were analyzed to assess the clinical efficacy of azithromycin combined with IVIG for RMPP. Treatment efficacy was measured by observing outcome variables such as clinical effectiveness, symptom duration (fever, lung rales, cough), and hospital stay duration.  

The study demonstrates that the azithromycin-IVIG combination is significantly more effective than azithromycin alone in treating RMPP in children. This approach improves therapeutic success rates (RR = 1.18) and notably reduces symptoms. Fever resolution is shortened by 2.12 days, while the resolution of lung rales and cough is accelerated by 2.90 and 3.59 days, respectively. Additionally, the average hospital stay is reduced by 5.72 days. Importantly, no additional adverse effects were observed in the group treated with the combination therapy.
 

Azithromycin-IVIG: A Robust Combination Against Mycoplasma Pneumoniae in Children


This study highlights a promising pathway for optimizing the management of RMPP, providing an alternative treatment option for children with this challenging condition. The evidence confirms that the azithromycin-IVIG combination offers superior efficacy, leading to faster symptom resolution, shorter hospital stays, and a safety profile comparable to standard treatments. By effectively modulating the inflammatory response and improving clinical outcomes, this therapy has the potential to become a cornerstone of RMPP treatment strategies.

Read more

Source(s) :
Shen, Y. Y., et al. (2024). Efficacy of azithromycin combined with intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of refractory mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a meta-analysis. BMC pediatrics, 24(1), 678. ;

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In fact, it represents a major public health challenge. This is all the more true given that current evidence suggests that conventional treatments are not always effective and may be associated with undesirable side-effects. Given the limitations of these treatments, the search for therapeutic alternatives is a priority.

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which involves introducing healthy intestinal flora into a patient, has shown promising potential in the treatment of certain diseases (Clostridium difficile infection, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.). With this in mind, this study looked at the use of FMT to treat T2DM, to assess its effectiveness and limitations.

FMT as an intervention in type 2 diabetes: a clinical study


21 patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin were included in the study and divided into three groups:

  • FMT from healthy, lean donors ;
  • Probiotic (Lactobacillus delbrueckii LB-14) ;
  • Placebo.

The following parameters were measured over a 12-week period: anthropometric variables, blood glucose and HbA1c levels, insulin sensitivity using the HOMA-IR model and the composition of each participant's faecal microbiota.

These studies show that :

  • FMT does not significantly improve insulin sensitivity or HbA1c in patients with T2DM. 
  • A moderate increase in HbA1c was observed in patients who received FMT (+0.25%, p = 0.041), but no significant change in glucose or HbA1c levels was observed between the groups. 
  • The composition of faecal microbiota did not differ between the three treatment groups. However, the microbiota profile changed mainly in favour of the donor species, with no significant impact on insulin sensitivity. 

Microbiota transplantation as a therapeutic approach for type II diabetes


This study demonstrates that FMT from healthy, lean donors is not associated with a clinically significant improvement in insulin sensitivity or reduction in HbA1c in patients with T2D. Although temporary changes in the composition of the microbiota were observed, no lasting metabolic effect was observed. This study, limited by a small sample size of 21 participants and some heterogeneity in baseline patient characteristics, suggests that further research is needed to better identify the potential of FMT in T2D, in particular by adjusting the frequency and choice of donor bacteria.

Read more

Source(s) :
Gómez-Pérez, A. M., et al. (2024). Microbiota Transplantation in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes and a High Degree of Insulin Resistance. Nutrients, 16(20), 3491. ;