Human Breast Milk Effective for Infants With Atopic Dermatitis

Topical application of breast milk found to be as effective as hydrocortisone 1 percent ointment

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- For infants with atopic dermatitis, topical application of human breast milk has the same efficacy as hydrocortisone 1 percent ointment, according to a study published online Feb. 2 in the International Journal of Dermatology.

Hengameh Kasrae, from the Arak University of Medical Sciences in Iran, and colleagues examined the short-term efficacy of topical application of human breast milk versus hydrocortisone 1 percent ointment in infants with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. Infants with diagnosed atopic dermatitis within a pediatric unit were randomized to receive human breast milk or hydrocortisone.

The researchers found that at days zero, seven, 14, and 21, there were no significant differences between the groups. The interventions in both groups demonstrated similar effects.

"The results of the present study suggest that the human breast milk can improve infant atopic eczema with the same results as 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment," the authors write. "We recommend the use of human breast milk for curing infant atopic eczema due to its healing effect and availability."

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