Improvement of Good’s syndrome by fecal microbiota transplantation: the first case report

Abstract

Good’s syndrome (GS) is a rare primary immunodeficiency defined as hypogammaglobulinemia associated with the presence of a thymoma. Patients with GS usually have increased susceptibility to a wide range of infections, and clinical treatment is a challenge for physicians. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which is a safe strategy for reconstruction of the gut microbiota, has a positive influence on the treatment of refractory infections such as those in patients with GS. We herein report a case involving a 73-year-old woman who had been previously diagnosed with a thymoma. After thymectomy, she complained of respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. Her laboratory analysis strongly suggested GS. Infusion of immunoglobulin and albumin was the only treatment of choice until FMT was considered as an alternative therapy. The patient’s manifestations were subsequently relieved, and several FMTs were required to maintain clinical remission. Management of GS remains quite challenging to physicians because of the intricate organ involvement and limited and costly existing therapies. FMT is usually well tolerated by patients, and its cost-effectiveness and safety profile allow it to be considered as an alternative therapy for GS.