Oral lactoferrin for the prevention of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants

Abstract

Background: Lactoferrin, a normal component of human colostrum, milk, tears, and saliva can enhance host defence and may be effective in the prevention of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm neonates. Objectives: To assess the safety and effectiveness of oral lactoferrin in the prevention of spesis and NEC in preterm neonates. Search strategy: We used the search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group (CNRG) including of CENTRAL, MEDLINE and PREMEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL through Oct 2009. In addition, we searched trials registries and the conference proceedings of Pediatric Academic Society.