ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to describe the safety of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) among older adults. METHODS: We performed a case review of all FMT recipients aged 65 or older treated at Emory University Hospital, a tertiary care and referral center for Georgia and surrounding states. RESULTS: CDI resolved in 27 (87%) of 31 respondents, including three individuals who received multiple FMTs. Among four whose CDI was not resolved at follow up, three respondents did well initially before CDI recurred, and one individual never eradicated his CDI despite repeating FMT. During the study, five deaths and eight serious adverse events requiring hospitalization were reported within the study group during the follow-up period. Fecal transplant was not a causative factor in these events. The most common adverse event reported in 4 (13%) of 31 respondents was subjective worsening of arthritis. CONCLUSION: FMT is a generally safe and effective treatment option for older adults with CDI.
ABSTRACT
Fecal microbiota transplant has become more acceptable as a therapeutic for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection. The FDA has an enforcement discretion policy for practitioner's performing this therapy, which includes informed consent for this experimental treatment. This manuscript describes a typical procedure that can be followed that includes the important aspects of this preparation and treatment.
