Exploring the Potential of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation as a Therapy in Tuberculosis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract

This review explores the potential benefits of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as an adjunct treatment in tuberculosis (TB), drawing parallels from its efficacy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). FMT has shown promise in restoring the gut microbial balance and modulating immune responses in IBD patients. Considering the similarities in immunomodulation and dysbiosis between IBD and TB, this review hypothesizes that FMT may offer therapeutic benefits as an adjunct therapy in TB. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature on FMT in IBD and TB, highlighting the mechanisms and potential implications of FMT in the therapeutic management of both conditions. The findings contribute to understanding FMT's potential role in TB treatment and underscore the necessity for future research in this direction to fully leverage its clinical applications. Conclusion: The integration of FMT into the comprehensive management of TB could potentially enhance treatment outcomes, reduce drug resistance, and mitigate the side effects of conventional therapies. Future research endeavors should focus on well-designed clinical trials to develop guidelines concerning the safety and short- and long-term benefits of FMT in TB patients, as well as to assess potential risks.

Keywords: FMT; IBD; TB; adjunct therapy; dysbiosis; fecal microbiota transplantation; gut microbiota; immunomodulation; inflammatory bowel disease; tuberculosis.

Figure 1

PRISMA flow diagram.