Faecal Microbial Transplants

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What is a faecal microbial transplant? A faecal microbial transplant, better known as FMT is a known procedure in which human faecal matter is gathered from a positive donor in order to replace good bacteria that has been damaged back to their normal compactness (1). This advanced procedure whereby the bacteria is collected, blended with saline – (a salt water solution), and then inserted into the patient through the process of colonoscopy, endoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (1) which helps in providing optimal gut functionality (2). This report will be discussing and evaluating the role and effectiveness of Faecal microbial transplant in tackling human diseases such as Clostridium difficile. Clostridium difficile is caused by an alteration in the …show more content…

It is the most ethical and cost-effective approach to collecting donor samples for performing the transplant by the use of the donor's frozen pre-screened aliquots (8). Recurrent infections with Clostridium difficile is an increasing problem, partly as a result of over hospitalisation or usage of antibiotics. Faecal microbial transplant, from healthy donors to patients with Clostridium Difficile who are resistant to antibiotic treatment, can prevent further proliferation of the illness by replacing depleted cells. Currently, trials are in progress in Australia and elsewhere, evaluating the potential of faecal microbial transplant in treating other diseases (4). FMT of screened healthy donor stool appears to be a safe and effective method to eradicate recurrent Clostridium difficile in children and young adults, with success rates of at least 90% in patients without concurrent autoimmune diseases, such as irritable bowel disease (IBD). Prospective studies using standardised Faecal Microbial Transplant protocols provide the evidence to support the safety and efficacy of this therapy (7). Clear clinical and diagnostic criteria are required to differentiate recurrent Clostridium Difficile from potential colonisation with Clostridium difficile. However, registries should be started to monitor the long-term safety. To date, there have not been any reports directly linked to long-term adverse effects in Faecal microbial transplant and microbial transplants are an effective therapy for human diseases.

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