Bromelain-Rich Pineapple Extract for the Treatment of Pediatric Patients With Orchiepididymitis: A Randomized Clinical Pilot Study

A freeze-dried pineapple extract—Brome-Inf, from pineapple by-products of industrial rings production, was enriched in bioactive polypeptides and bromelain by membrane ultrafiltration. Orchiepididymitis (OE), a painful pediatric pathology, was treated with this extract. A pilot, double-blind, randomized study involving 60 pediatric OE patients compared the effects of Brome-Inf to a placebo over a 15-day period, in conjunction with antibiotic treatment. In the present study, the primary objective was to assess the disparity in NSAIDs usage and pain intensity between the Brome-Inf group and the placebo group, utilizing the Wong-Becker, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain rating scales. Results revealed a significant reduction in VAS and NRS within the Brome-Inf group from Days 1 to 15 compared with placebo. A rapid regression of edema was observed in the active group after 1 week and at the end of the study. We can conclude that oral supplementation with Brome-Inf emerges as a promising co-management option for OE for its action on pain and edema, potentially enhancing the quality of life for affected children. Importantly, due to its well-balanced fruity flavor, the palatability of Brome-Inf was appreciated, ensuring optimal patient compliance and treatment safety.