Understanding infant colic and the role of probiotics in its management

This CME course on infant colic provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of this common but often misunderstood condition. The first module explores the definition, incidence and risk factors of colic, specifying the Rome IV diagnostic criteria and the main differential diagnoses, before delving into the pathophysiology involving digestive immaturity and the intestinal microbiota. The second module focuses on evidence-based management, detailing current clinical recommendations, non-pharmacological and nutritional approaches, and the growing role of probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, Bifidobacterium longum KABP042 and Pediococcus pentosaceus KABP041, in modulating the microbiota and improving symptoms. It also addresses the issue of long-term persistent colic and its possible link to other functional disorders, before concluding with research perspectives and practical tools to enable healthcare professionals to offer effective and empathetic support to families.