Management of Infantile Colic: A Recent Advancement Study

This review discusses the advances in the treatment of colic, the use of probiotics and the role of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM17938 in infantile colic. The diagnosis and management of infantile colic has come a long way since the first "case series" published by Wessel et al in 1954. The theory supporting the use of probiotics in infantile colic is that abnormal intestinal microbiota may contribute to symptoms by causing gut dysfunction and gas production. This made it possible to define the diagnostic standards for infantile colic, i.e. Rome IV criteria for functional gastrointestinal diseases and the current evolution of the Wessels criteria. The present method of treating colic has developed from the use of "gripe water" to probiotics. There is further emphasis on the other available options with their limitations and the side effects. L reuteri DSM 17938 since its discovery in the year 1962 by Professor Gerard Reuter has found its place in clinical research and multiple studies substantiate the efficacy of this naturally occurring probiotic which is not only limited to infantile colic but to multiple other indications and is recommended by the World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) and the European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN).