Dysbiosis and pouchitis.
METHODS
The exact aetiology of pouchitis is unknown, but an association with dysbiosis has been suggested. This is a retrospective review of 17 studies published between 1985 and 2005, identified by a search of the Medline, Pubmed and Embase databases.


RESULTS
The methodology of the studies varied widely. Many were performed at a time when the distinction between a healthy and an inflamed pouch was vague; misclassification of patients makes the analysis of data difficult and conclusions uncertain.


CONCLUSIONS
The evidence that dysbiosis is a cause of pouchitis is poor. Nevertheless, available data allow the construction of an algorithm to aid management and suggest a structured approach for future research.
Lim
M
M
Department of Colorectal Surgery, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK. mklim@Surgicalresearch.Fsnet.co.uk
Sagar
P
P
Finan
P
P
Burke
D
D
Schuster
H
H
D000465:Algorithms; D003106:Colon / Q000382:microbiology*; D006801:Humans; D007413:Intestinal Mucosa / Q000382:microbiology; D019449:Pouchitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000628:therapy