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Frontiers in Immunology 2023The utility of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) remains uncertain. We performed a meta-analysis to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
The utility of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) remains uncertain. We performed a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate its diagnostic accuracy for the early diagnosis of TBM.
METHODS
English (PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase) and Chinese (CNKI, Wanfang, and CBM) databases were searched for relevant studies assessing the diagnostic accuracy of mNGS for TBM. Review Manager was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies, and Stata was used to perform the statistical analysis.
RESULTS
Of 495 relevant articles retrieved, eight studies involving 693 participants (348 with and 345 without TBM) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the summary receiver-operating characteristic curve of mNGS for diagnosing TBM were 62% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46-0.76), 99% (95% CI: 0.94-1.00), 139.08 (95% CI: 8.54-2266), 0.38 (95% CI: 0.25-0.58), 364.89 (95% CI: 18.39-7239), and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95-0.98), respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
mNGS showed good specificity but moderate sensitivity; therefore, a more sensitive test should be developed to assist in the diagnosis of TBM.
Topics: Humans; Tuberculosis, Meningeal; Sensitivity and Specificity; ROC Curve; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing; Databases, Factual
PubMed: 37822937
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1223675 -
JAMA Network Open Jun 2023A potential relationship between meningioma and breast cancer was suggested 70 years ago. However, to date, no conclusive evidence is available on this topic. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
IMPORTANCE
A potential relationship between meningioma and breast cancer was suggested 70 years ago. However, to date, no conclusive evidence is available on this topic.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a comprehensive review of the literature on the association of meningioma with breast cancer, supported by a meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES
A systematic PubMed search was performed up to April 2023 to identify articles on the association of meningioma with breast cancer. The following key words were used strategically: meningioma, breast cancer, breast carcinoma, association, relation.
STUDY SELECTION
All studies reporting women diagnosed with meningioma and breast cancer were identified. The search strategy was not limited by study design or publication date but only included articles in English. Additional articles were identified via citation searching. Studies reporting a complete population of meningiomas or breast cancer patients throughout a specific study period and a proportion of patients with a second pathology could be used for the meta-analysis.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS
Data extraction was performed by 2 authors in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement. Meta-analyses regarding both populations were performed using a random-effects model. Risk of bias was assessed.
MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES
The main measures were whether there was an increased prevalence of breast cancer in female patients with meningioma and whether there was an increased prevalence of meningioma in female patients with breast cancer.
RESULTS
A total of 51 retrospective studies (case reports, case series, and cancer registry reports) describing 2238 patients with both diseases were identified; 18 studies qualified for prevalence analyses and meta-analysis. The random-effects meta-analysis (13 studies) revealed a significantly greater prevalence of breast cancer in female patients with meningioma than in the overall population (odds ratio [OR], 9.87; 95% CI, 7.31-13.32). Meningioma incidence in patients with breast cancer (11 studies) was greater than that in the baseline population; however, the difference according to the random-effects model was not statistically significant (OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 0.99-2.02).
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE
This large systematic review and the meta-analysis on the association between meningioma and breast cancer found nearly 10-fold higher odds of breast cancer in female patients with meningioma compared with the general female population. These findings suggest that female patients with meningioma should be screened more intensively for breast cancer. Further research is required to identify the factors causing this association.
Topics: Humans; Female; Breast Neoplasms; Meningioma; Retrospective Studies; Incidence; Meningeal Neoplasms
PubMed: 37326990
DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.18620 -
Journal of Clinical Medicine Sep 2023Spheno-orbital meningiomas (SOMs) are rare tumors arising from the meninges surrounding the sphenoid bone and orbital structures. Surgical resection is the primary... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Spheno-orbital meningiomas (SOMs) are rare tumors arising from the meninges surrounding the sphenoid bone and orbital structures. Surgical resection is the primary treatment approach for SOMs. Several surgical approaches have been described during the decades, including microsurgical transcranial (MTAs), endoscopic endonasal (EEAs), endoscopic transorbital (ETOAs), and combined approaches, and the choice of surgical approach remains a topic of debate.
PURPOSE
This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to compare the clinical and surgical outcomes of different surgical approaches used for the treatment of SOMs, discussing surgical techniques, outcomes, and factors influencing surgical decision making.
METHODS
A comprehensive literature review of the databases PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Ovid EMBASE was conducted for articles published on the role of surgery for the treatment of SOMs until 2023. The systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled event rates and assess heterogeneity. Fixed- and random-effects were used to assess 95% confidential intervals (CIs) of presenting symptoms, outcomes, and complications.
RESULTS
A total of 59 studies comprising 1903 patients were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Gross total resection (GTR) rates ranged from 23.5% for ETOAs to 59.8% for MTAs. Overall recurrence rate after surgery was 20.7%. Progression-free survival (PFS) rates at 5 and 10 years were 75.5% and 49.1%, respectively. Visual acuity and proptosis improvement rates were 57.5% and 79.3%, respectively. Postoperative cranial nerve (CN) focal deficits were observed in 20.6% of cases. The overall cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) leak rate was 3.9%, and other complications occurred in 13.9% of cases. MTAs showed the highest GTR rates (59.8%, 95%CI = 49.5-70.2%; = 0.001) but were associated with increased CN deficits (21.0%, 95%CI = 14.5-27.6%). ETOAs had the lowest GTR rates (23.5%, 95%CI = 0.0-52.5%; = 0.001), while combined ETOA and EEA had the highest CSF leak rates (20.3%, 95%CI = 0.0-46.7%; = 0.551). ETOAs were associated with better proptosis improvement (79.4%, 95%CI = 57.3-100%; = 0.002), while anatomical class I lesions were associated with better visual acuity (71.5%, 95%CI = 63.7-79.4; = 0.003) and proptosis (60.1%, 95%CI = 38.0-82.2; = 0.001) recovery. No significant differences were found in PFS rates between surgical approaches.
CONCLUSION
Surgical treatment of SOMs aims to preserve visual function and improve proptosis. Different surgical approaches offer varying rates of GTR, complications, and functional outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach involving a skull base team is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
PubMed: 37762781
DOI: 10.3390/jcm12185840 -
Emerging Infectious Diseases Oct 2022Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection of the central nervous system that occurs in many parts of Europe and Asia. Humans mainly acquire TBE through tick... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection of the central nervous system that occurs in many parts of Europe and Asia. Humans mainly acquire TBE through tick bites, but TBE occasionally is contracted through consuming unpasteurized milk products from viremic livestock. We describe cases of TBE acquired through alimentary transmission in Europe during the past 4 decades. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 410 foodborne TBE cases, mostly from a region in central and eastern Europe. Most cases were reported during the warmer months (April–August) and were associated with ingesting unpasteurized dairy products from goats. The median incubation period was short, 3.5 days, and neuroinvasive disease was common (38.9%). The clinical attack rate was 14% (95% CI 12%–16%), and we noted major heterogeneity. Vaccination programs and public awareness campaigns could reduce the number of persons affected by this potentially severe disease.
Topics: Encephalitis Viruses, Tick-Borne; Encephalitis, Tick-Borne; Europe; Humans
PubMed: 36149234
DOI: 10.3201/eid2810.220498 -
Journal of Nanobiotechnology Aug 2023Lymph nodes targeted drug delivery is an attractive approach to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes. Currently, the depth of understanding of afferent and efferent... (Review)
Review
Lymph nodes targeted drug delivery is an attractive approach to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes. Currently, the depth of understanding of afferent and efferent arms in brain immunity reveals the potential clinical applications of lymph node targeted drug delivery in brain tumors, e.g., glioblastoma. In this work, we systematically reviewed the microenvironment of glioblastoma and its structure as a basis for potential immunotherapy, including the glial-lymphatic pathway for substance exchange, the lymphatic drainage pathway from meningeal lymphatic vessels to deep cervical lymph nodes that communicate intra- and extracranial immunity, and the interaction between the blood-brain barrier and effector T cells. Furthermore, the carriers designed for lymph nodes targeted drug delivery were comprehensively summarized. The challenges and opportunities in developing a lymph nodes targeted delivery strategy for glioblastoma using nanotechnology are included at the end.
Topics: Humans; Glioblastoma; Lymph Nodes; Brain Neoplasms; Brain; Drug Delivery Systems; Tumor Microenvironment
PubMed: 37542241
DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02011-0 -
Neurologia May 2023No formal indication currently exists for seizure prophylaxis in neurosurgical oncology patients. Neither have specific recommendations been made on the use of... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
No formal indication currently exists for seizure prophylaxis in neurosurgical oncology patients. Neither have specific recommendations been made on the use of antiepileptic drugs (AED) in seizure-free patients with meningiomas scheduled for surgery. AEDs are generally prescribed on a discretionary basis, taking into consideration a range of clinical and radiological risk factors. We present a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring the effectiveness of antiepileptic prophylaxis in patients with meningioma and no history of seizures.
METHODS
We performed a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and clinicaltrials.gov databases. Of a total of 4368 studies initially identified, 12 were selected for extraction of data and qualitative analysis. Based on the clinical data presented, we were only able to include 6 studies in the meta-analysis. We performed heterogeneity studies, calculated a combined odds ratio, evaluated publication bias, and conducted a sensitivity analysis.
RESULTS
AED prophylaxis in patients with meningioma and no history of seizures did not significantly reduce the incidence of post-operative seizures in comparison to controls (Mantel-Haenszel combined odds ratio, random effects model: 1.26 [95% confidence interval, 0.60-2.78]; 2041 patients). However, we are unable to establish a robust recommendation against this treatment due to the lack of prospective studies, the presence of selection bias in the studies reviewed, the likelihood of underestimation of seizure frequency during follow-up, and the strong influence of one study on the overall effect.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite the limitations of this review, the results of the meta-analysis do not support the routine use of seizure prophylaxis in patients with meningioma and no history of seizures.
Topics: Humans; Meningioma; Phenytoin; Anticonvulsants; Incidence; Meningeal Neoplasms
PubMed: 35781420
DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2022.03.002 -
Neurosurgical Review Oct 2021Foramen magnum meningiomas (FMMs) account for 1.8-3.2% of all meningiomas. With this systematic review and meta-analysis, our goal is to detail epidemiology, clinical... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Foramen magnum meningiomas (FMMs) account for 1.8-3.2% of all meningiomas. With this systematic review and meta-analysis, our goal is to detail epidemiology, clinical features, surgical aspects, and outcomes of this rare pathology. Using PRISMA 2015 guidelines, we reviewed case series, mixed series, or retrospective observational cohorts with description of surgical technique, patient and lesion characteristics, and pre- and postoperative clinical status. A meta-analysis was performed to search for correlations between meningioma characteristics and rate of gross total resection (GTR). We considered 33 retrospective studies or case series, including 1053 patients, mostly females (53.8%), with a mean age of 52 years. The mean follow-up was of 51 months (range 0-258 months). 65.6% of meningiomas were anterior, and the mean diameter was of 29 mm, treated with different surgical approaches. Postoperatively, 17.2% suffered complications (both surgery- and non-surgery-related) and 2.5% had a recurrence. The Karnofsky performance score improved in average after surgical treatment (75 vs. 81, p < 0.001). Our meta-analysis shows significant rates of GTR in cohorts with a majority of posterior and laterally located FMM (p = 0.025) and with a mean tumor less than 25 mm (p < 0.05). FMM is a rare and challenging pathology whose treatment should be multidisciplinary, focusing on quality of life. Surgery still remains the gold standard and aim at maximal resection with neurological function preservation. Adjuvant therapies are needed in case of subtotal removal, non-grade I lesions, or recurrence. Specific risk factors for recurrence, other than Simpson grading, need further research.
Topics: Female; Foramen Magnum; Humans; Male; Meningeal Neoplasms; Meningioma; Middle Aged; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Neurosurgical Procedures; Quality of Life; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 33507444
DOI: 10.1007/s10143-021-01478-5 -
International Journal of Molecular... Aug 2023Giant arachnoid granulations (GAGs) are minimally investigated. Here, we systematically review the available data in published reports to better understand their... (Review)
Review
Giant arachnoid granulations (GAGs) are minimally investigated. Here, we systematically review the available data in published reports to better understand their etiologies, nomenclature, and clinical significance. In the literature, 195 GAGs have been documented in 169 persons of varied ages (range, 0.33 to 91 years; mean, 43 ± 20 years; 54% female). Prior reports depict intrasinus (i.e., dural venous sinus, DVS) (84%), extrasinus (i.e., diploic or calvarial) (15%), and mixed (1%) GAG types that exhibit pedunculated, sessile, or vermiform morphologies. GAG size ranged from 0.4 to 6 cm in maximum dimension (mean, 1.9 ± 1.1 cm) and encompassed symptomatic or non-symptomatic enlarged arachnoid granulations (≥1 cm) as well as symptomatic subcentimeter arachnoid granulations. A significant difference was identified in mean GAG size between sex (females, 1.78 cm; males, 3.39 cm; < 0.05). The signs and symptoms associated with GAGs varied and include headache (19%), sensory change(s) (11%), and intracranial hypertension (2%), among diverse and potentially serious sequelae. Notably, brain herniation was present within 38 GAGs (22%). Among treated individuals, subsets were managed medically (19 persons, 11%), surgically (15 persons, 9%), and/or by endovascular DVS stenting (7 persons, 4%). Histologic workup of 53 (27%) GAG cases depicted internal inflammation (3%), cystic change consistent with fluid accumulation (2%), venous thrombosis (1%), hemorrhage (1%), meningothelial hyperplasia (1%), lymphatic vascular proliferation (1%), and lymphatic vessel obliteration (1%). This review emphasizes heterogeneity in GAG subtypes, morphology, composite, location, symptomatology, and imaging presentations. Additional systematic investigations are needed to better elucidate the pathobiology, clinical effects, and optimal diagnostic and management strategies for enlarged and symptomatic arachnoid granulation subtypes, as different strategies and size thresholds are likely applicable for medical, interventional, and/or surgical treatment of these structures in distinct brain locations.
Topics: Male; Humans; Female; Brain; Clinical Relevance; Disease Progression; Headache; Vascular Diseases; Arachnoid
PubMed: 37629195
DOI: 10.3390/ijms241613014 -
School-age outcomes of children after perinatal brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis.BMJ Paediatrics Open Jun 2023Over 3000 children suffer a perinatal brain injury in England every year according to national surveillance. The childhood outcomes of infants with perinatal brain... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Over 3000 children suffer a perinatal brain injury in England every year according to national surveillance. The childhood outcomes of infants with perinatal brain injury are however unknown.
METHODS
A systematic review and meta-analyses were undertaken of studies published between 2000 and September 2021 exploring school-aged neurodevelopmental outcomes of children after perinatal brain injury compared with those without perinatal brain injury. The primary outcome was neurodevelopmental impairment, which included cognitive, motor, speech and language, behavioural, hearing or visual impairment after 5 years of age.
RESULTS
This review included 42 studies. Preterm infants with intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) grades 3-4 were found to have a threefold greater risk of moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental impairment at school age OR 3.69 (95% CI 1.7 to 7.98) compared with preterm infants without IVH. Infants with perinatal stroke had an increased incidence of hemiplegia 61% (95% CI 39.2% to 82.9%) and an increased risk of cognitive impairment (difference in full scale IQ -24.2 (95% CI -30.73 to -17.67) . Perinatal stroke was also associated with poorer academic performance; and lower mean receptive -20.88 (95% CI -36.66 to -5.11) and expressive language scores -20.25 (95% CI -34.36 to -6.13) on the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF) assessment. Studies reported an increased risk of persisting neurodevelopmental impairment at school age after neonatal meningitis. Cognitive impairment and special educational needs were highlighted after moderate-to-severe hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. However, there were limited comparative studies providing school-aged outcome data across neurodevelopmental domains and few provided adjusted data. Findings were further limited by the heterogeneity of studies.
CONCLUSIONS
Longitudinal population studies exploring childhood outcomes after perinatal brain injury are urgently needed to better enable clinicians to prepare affected families, and to facilitate targeted developmental support to help affected children reach their full potential.
Topics: Infant; Pregnancy; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Child; Infant, Premature; Brain Injuries; Infant, Premature, Diseases; Cerebral Hemorrhage; Stroke
PubMed: 37270200
DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001810 -
Cureus Aug 2022The coronavirus can infect the upper respiratory tract, sinuses, and nose, and its severity manifests in its respiratory symptoms and neurological and psychological... (Review)
Review
The coronavirus can infect the upper respiratory tract, sinuses, and nose, and its severity manifests in its respiratory symptoms and neurological and psychological consequences. The majority of people who have COVID-19 present with moderate flu-like illness, and patients who are elderly with comorbid conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, are more prone to experience severe illness and death. However, in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, neurological consequences have become a substantial source of morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 poses a global hazard to the nervous system because of its widespread dispersion and multiple pathogenic pathways. This review offers a critical assessment of the acute and long-term neurological effects of the COVID-19 virus. Some neurological problems include headache, dizziness, myalgia/fatigue, meningitis, ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke, and myelitis. Other people who have contracted COVID-19 also exhibit neurological features such as loss of taste and smell, reduced consciousness, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. This study seeks to help neurologists comprehend the wide range of neurologic aspects of COVID-19, as understanding neurological symptoms may help with the management and enhance the patient's outcomes.
PubMed: 36168382
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28309