Broad-spectrum antibiotics can destroy the intestinal microflora, thereby increasing the risk of complications in stem cell transplantation.

This is evidenced by the results of a recent study involving 857 patients published in Science Translational Medicine.

According to scientists, "good" bacteria protect against the development of the graft-versus-host reaction (GVHD) that occurs when transplanting genetically non-identical donor cells due to the activity of the recipient's immune system. Antibiotics in this case can harm.

On the other hand, patients after transplantation are vulnerable to fatal bacterial infections and require treatment with a wide range of antibiotics.

To better understand the effect of antibiotics on the risk of developing GVHD and the success of stem cell transplantation, Yusuke Shono, Melissa Docampo and colleagues analyzed the case histories of 857 patients who underwent transplantation of allogeneic hematopoietic cells.

Scientists compared the names and doses of antibiotics with cases of death and complications. In addition, the authors had feces samples on which it is possible to determine the microbial diversity of the intestinal microflora of each patient after treatment with antibiotics.

In addition, experiments were performed with stem cell transplantation in mice that received broad-spectrum antibiotics. Experiments have confirmed that such antibiotic therapy, which scientists compare with carpet bombings, often leads to the development of GVHD.

Although the results of Dr. Shono's work are preliminary and require serious re-examination, a number of experts believe that this is a "very alarming signal" that should not be ignored by doctors.

medbe. en.