This paper studies whether taking specific probiotic supplements can help improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis in adults. The researchers tested a mixture of three different types of beneficial bacteria (lactobacilli) as a supplement.
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Efficacy of a probiotic supplement in patients with atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Efficacy of a probiotic supplement in patients with atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Angela Michelotti, Enza Cestone, Ileana De Ponti, Silvana Giardina, Marta Pisati, Eleonora Spartà, Francesco Tursi
DOI: 10.1684/ejd.2021.4019
Randomized Controlled Trial
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80 participants
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2021
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8 citations
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What is this paper about?
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How did the authors study this?
The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial lasting 56 days, followed by a 28-day observation period. Researchers measured skin conditions using clinical evaluations and tested inflammatory markers from skin samples. They compared people taking either the probiotic mixture or a placebo.
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What populations did the authors study?
The study included 80 adult participants with mild-to-severe atopic dermatitis who had symptoms like skin dryness, flaking, redness, and itching.
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What did the authors find?
People who took the probiotic supplement showed better skin smoothness and moisturization compared to those taking placebo. Their SCORAD scores (a measure of eczema severity) decreased, and they had lower levels of inflammatory markers. These improvements were seen by day 28 and continued through day 56, with benefits still present even after stopping the supplement for a month.
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What conclusions can we draw?
The authors conclude that taking these specific probiotic strains led to quick and lasting improvements in atopic dermatitis symptoms and skin condition. The benefits remained even after stopping the treatment.
