A 12 weeks, randomized and double-blind evaluation of the efficacy of oral supplements of probiotics (Lactogut and Lactogut Kidz) on atopic dermatitis in adults and children

Abstract

Background: The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral probiotics in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) using the scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index, serum IgE levels and absolute eosinophil count (AEC). The secondary objective of the study was to determine the association of oral probiotic therapy and improvement in AD using global photographs, dermoscopic images (fotofinder) and individual patient satisfaction. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind study conducted on 70 patients (20 adults and 50 children) with moderate to severe AD. The participants were randomized into control arm and treatment arm. The treatment arm received conventional and probiotic therapy and only conventional therapy was provided to the control arm. The research was carried out in five visits. For each visit, SCORAD was calculated and response compared using clinical and videodermoscopic images. Patient satisfaction was documented using a quality of life questionnaire during each visit. Results: Across the treatment arm, the mean serum IgE levels were greatly decreased in contrast to the control arm over the 12 weeks period. SCORAD score was significantly lowered in the treatment arm (55.20%) compared with 18.95% in the control arm. Dermoscopic assessment, global photographic assessment and patient satisfaction in the treatment arm showed statistically significant improvement in AD compared to the control arm. Conclusions: The decrease in SCORAD scores demonstrated strong associations with the use of probiotics in patients with AD as an adjunct to conventional therapy. Thus, in both adults and children suffering from moderate to severe AD, probiotic supplement can be administered effectively as an adjunct therapy.