Bifidobacterium longum subsp infantis (EVC001) is associated with reduced incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis stage ≥2 and bloody stools in premature babies

Abstract

Objective: To utilize an evidence-based probiotic protocol to achieve a 50% reduction in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) ≥ stage 2 and bloody stools. Study design: From January 2022 through September 2023, daily enteral Bifidobacterium longum ssp. infantis EVC001 (B. infantis EVC001) was administered to babies ≤ 33 6/7 weeks gestation until 36 weeks post menstrual age. Feeding tolerance and complications were compared to babies admitted during the prior two-year period. Fisher’s Exact test was used to analyze proportional data and t test was used for continuous variables. Results: A total of 265 babies received EVC001, and a total of 277 babies formed the pre-probiotic cohort. Probiotic use was associated with decreased NEC ≥ stage 2 (p = 0.0058), reduced bloody stools (p < 0.0001), decreased time to full enteral feeds (p < 0.0001), and decreased total parenteral nutrition (TPN) days (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Administration of B. infantis EVC001 was associated with a decrease in NEC, a decrease in bloody stools, and improvement in feeding tolerance in premature babies.