Bacteriotherapy with an autologous strain of bacteria may safely improve S. aureus colonization in the microbiome of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and improve disease severity, a new study suggests.

In this clinical trial of 11 patients with eczema, researchers saw a 99.2 percent reduction in staphylococcus aureus colonization and observed significant clinical improvement as well.

“Although larger studies will be needed, this personalized approach for S aureus reduction may provide an alternative treatment for patients with AD beyond antibiotics, immunosuppression, and immunomodulation, “ conclude researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine.

The study appears in JAMA Dermatology.