Human breast milk effective for atopic dermatitis in infants

(HealthDay)—Topical application of human breast milk (HBM) is effective for infants with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, according to a study published in the August issue of the International Journal of Dermatology.

Hengameh Kasrae, from the Arak University of Medical Sciences in Iran, and colleagues examined the short-term efficacy of HBM versus 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment for infants with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in a single-center study. One hundred sixteen infants within a pediatric unit were randomly allocated to hydrocortisone or HBM. In both groups, most atopic dermatitis cases were considered moderately severe.

The researchers found that the interventions of both groups had the same effects. There were no significant between-group differences at days zero, seven, 14, or 21.

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