Microbiome analysis and fecal microbiota transfer in pediatric gastroenterology — a structured online survey in German-speaking countries

Purpose To assess the current attitude and the status quo towards the use of microbiome analysis and fecal microbiota transfer (FMT) in pediatric patients in German-speaking pediatric gastroenterology centers. Methods A structured online survey among all certified facilities of the German-speaking society of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition (GPGE) was conducted from November 01, 2020, until March 30, 2021. Results A total of 71 centers were included in the analysis. Twenty-two centers (31.0%) use diagnostic microbiome analysis, but only a few perform analysis frequently (2; 2.8%) or regularly (1; 1.4%). Eleven centers (15.5%) have performed FMT as a therapeutic approach. Most of these centers use individual in-house donor screening programs (61.5%). One-third (33.8%) of centers rate the therapeutic impact of FMT as high or moderate. More than two-thirds (69.0%) of all participants are willing to participate in studies assessing the therapeutic effect of FMT. Conclusions Guidelines for microbiome analyses and FMT in pediatric patients and clinical studies investigating their benefits are absolutely necessary to improve the patient-centered care in pediatric gastroenterology. The long-term and successful establishment of pediatric FMT centers with standardized procedures for patient selection, donor screening, application route, volume, and frequency of use is highly required to obtain a safe therapy.