Fecal Microbial Transplant Program
Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles is one of a few hospitals around the country that offers fecal microbial transplant to children with ulcerative colitis and recurrent clostridium difficile infection.
What is Fecal Microbial Transplant (FMT)?
FMT or stool transplant is a process by which good bacteria from stools of a healthy individual is transferred to another person. While this sounds like a strange idea, studies are beginning to show how helpful this can be to patients who have specific conditions such as ulcerative colitis or specific infections such as clostridium difficile infection.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the large intestine and treatment options are limited. Clostridium difficile is an infection that can be recurrent and difficult to treat. CHLA now has a program led by Dr. Sonia Michail that may offer FMT to appropriate candidates with these conditions.
Comprehensive Care
The Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles is a leader in the care of children with digestive disorders and provides a comprehensive approach utilizing the latest technology. We perform advanced research studies at the basic laboratory as well as the translational and clinical trials levels.
Children with ulcerative colitis or recurrent clostridium difficile infection will be evaluated to see if fecal microbial transplant is appropriate for them. If found to be candidates for fecal transplant or for research studies, Dr. Michail and her team will discuss the details of the fecal transplant with the child and the family.
Children that enroll in the fecal microbial transplant program have full access to the supportive services and the digestive programs offered at CHLA.
Referrals
To find out more information about the fecal microbial transplant program, referring physicians and families with children that have ulcerative colitis or recurrent clostridium difficile infection may contact the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
