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Medicine Jul 2016Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune multiorgan disorder of unknown etiology. It affects both men and women, but with different disease... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune multiorgan disorder of unknown etiology. It affects both men and women, but with different disease manifestations of differing disease severity and in varying proportion, with a female predominance of approximately 90%. There have been numerous studies addressing this issue, especially its implications in relation to optimal sex-tailored treatment and improvement of survival rate; however, further research is warranted. A meta-analysis of studies was performed to compare the impact of sex on the clinical outcomes of SLE in different populations.
METHODS
A literature search of the MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE databases (until January 2016) was conducted to identify relevant articles. Clinical manifestations reported in these patients were considered as endpoints for this meta-analysis. Two independent reviewers determined eligibility criteria. A fixed-effect model has been used where a small heterogeneity was observed, or else, a random-effect model has been used among the studies. Odd ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to express the pooled effect on dichotomous variables, and the pooled analyses were performed with RevMan 5.3.
RESULTS
Sixteen studies consisting of a total of 11,934 SLE patients (10,331 females and 1603 males) have been included in this meta-analysis. The average female-to-male ratio of all the included studies is around 9.3:1. Several statistically significant differences were found: alopecia, photosensitivity, and oral ulcers were significantly higher in female patients (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.29-0.46, P < 0.00001; OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63-0.83, P < 0.00001; and OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.60-0.82, P < 0.00001, respectively). Malar rash was significantly higher in female patients (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.53-0.88, P = 0.003), and arthritis was significantly lower in male patients (OR 0.72, 95% CI 1.25-1.84, P < 0.00001). However, serositis and pleurisies were significantly higher in female patients (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.25-1.84 P < 0.0001; and OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.07-1.48, P = 0.006, respectively). Renal involvement was higher in male patients (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.31-1.75, P < 0.00001).
CONCLUSION
The results of this meta-analysis suggest that alopecia, photosensitivity, oral ulcers, arthritis, malar rash, lupus anticoagulant level, and low level of C3 were significantly higher in female lupus patients, whereas renal involvement, serositis and pleurisies, thrombocytopenia, and anti-double stranded deoxyribonucleic acid level were predominant in male patients.
Topics: Female; Humans; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic; Male; Precision Medicine; Sex Characteristics; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 27442661
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000004272 -
Scientific Reports Oct 2015The diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is difficult. In recent years, T-cell interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs) are widely used in diagnosing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is difficult. In recent years, T-cell interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs) are widely used in diagnosing tuberculosis. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of body fluid IGRAs in diagnosing EPTB. The PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane bibliographies were searched for English language articles. 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of body fluid IGRAs for diagnosing EPTB were 0.87 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.83-0.92] and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.79-0.90), respectively. For the fluid T-SPOT.TB, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.92 (95% CI: 0.88-0.95) and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78-0.91), respectively. The diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of the fluid T-SPOT.TB was 46.99 (95% CI: 13.69-161.28) for tuberculosis pleurisy, 26.46 (95% CI: 11.38-61.56) for tuberculosis peritonitis, and 97.86 (95% CI: 25.31-378.45) for tuberculosis meningitis. The application of T-SPOT. TB in the diagnosis of EPTB performed better in the body fluid than in the blood. The diagnostic values of the fluid T-SPOT.TB varied for different fluid categories. However, the utility of T-SPOT.TB was limited due to its suboptimal accuracy and higher cost compared with conventional tests.
Topics: Body Fluids; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Humans; Interferon-gamma; Tuberculosis
PubMed: 26503802
DOI: 10.1038/srep15284 -
Australian Veterinary Journal Jan 2021Major health conditions in sheep contribute to substantial economic losses throughout the sheepmeat supply chain in Australia. A systematic review was undertaken to... (Review)
Review
Major health conditions in sheep contribute to substantial economic losses throughout the sheepmeat supply chain in Australia. A systematic review was undertaken to explore the measurable impact of six conditions: arthritis, sheep measles, pleurisy, pneumonia, grass seeds and rib fractures, on the production of lamb and mutton across the meat value chain. Peer-reviewed scientific literature from three databases and non-peer-reviewed articles and reports from Australian government and non-government websites were searched between 11 and 17 November 2019. Original articles, including studies conducted in Australia and New Zealand, that had measurable impacts on conditions of interest were included. The search yielded 16 articles and reports and were classified as producer impact and/or processor impact studies. Mortalities were quantified for pneumonia and arthritis, with pneumonia having the highest impact for producers. Grass seed infestation resulted in the highest impact on carcase and liveweight losses compared to arthritis and pneumonia. Arthritis had the highest trim weight losses for both lamb and mutton and the highest rate of carcase condemnation. Grass seed was the only condition where other impacts on the processor (chain speed and staff relocation to the boning room) were quantified. Although quantifiable production and processing losses were available for some conditions, this review has highlighted that limited quantifiable data based on scientifically sound research were not available for other conditions. The evidence for some conditions found in this review can be used to target future research activities and to further assist producers in making informed management decisions on prevention and control.
Topics: Animals; Australia; Meat; New Zealand; Red Meat; Sheep; Sheep, Domestic
PubMed: 33016335
DOI: 10.1111/avj.13026 -
The International Journal of... Aug 2003As Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolation rates in tuberculous effusions are relatively low, several biochemical and immunological markers have been proposed to diagnose... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
As Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolation rates in tuberculous effusions are relatively low, several biochemical and immunological markers have been proposed to diagnose tuberculous pleurisy including adenosine deaminase (ADA) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Here we summarise the literature on ADA and IFN-gamma as predictors of tuberculous pleurisy.
METHODS
After a systematic review of English language studies, we used summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) analysis to determine the cumulative diagnostic accuracy of both markers and Bayes' theorem to calculate post-test probability of disease in settings with different prevalences of tuberculous pleurisy, assessed and reported the quality of primary studies.
RESULTS
From 1978 to November 2000, studies containing sufficient data for the determination of both sensitivity and specificity were 31 on ADA, including 4738 patients, and 13 on IFN-gamma, including 1189 patients. SROC curve yielded a maximum joint sensitivity and specificity of 93% for ADA and 96% for IFN-gamma. In the setting of tuberculous effusion prevalence of 5%, 25% and 85%, post-test probability of a negative ADA test were 0.4%, 2.4% and 24%, and 0.22%, 1.2% and 17% for a negative IFN-gamma test.
CONCLUSION
With the caveat that limitations in the design of the studies summarised here may distort estimates of test performance, ADA and IFN-gamma appear to be reasonably accurate at detecting TB pleurisy.
Topics: Adenosine Deaminase; Bayes Theorem; Biomarkers; Clinical Trials as Topic; Humans; Interferon-gamma; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Predictive Value of Tests; ROC Curve; Tuberculosis, Pleural
PubMed: 12921155
DOI: No ID Found -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2000TB of the pleura is associated with inflammation and fibrosis. Steroids could reduce the effects of the inflammation, but the immunosuppression could make patients... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
TB of the pleura is associated with inflammation and fibrosis. Steroids could reduce the effects of the inflammation, but the immunosuppression could make patients vunerable.
OBJECTIVES
This review aims to summarise the evidence about the effects of corticosteroids in patients with TB of the pleura, and explores if HIV status is associated with differences in effect estimates.
SEARCH STRATEGY
We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group trials register, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE. Lists of references from review articles and primary studies were scanned and experts in the field of tuberculosis were contacted.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Randomised and quasi-randomised trials evaluating the effects of adjunctive corticosteroids in patients diagnosed with TB pleurisy were sought. Both beneficial and adverse effects were noted.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two authors independently applied inclusion criteria, assessed trial quality and extracted the relevant data.
MAIN RESULTS
Three small trials met the inclusion criteria( total participants n=236), conducted in only HIV negative patients, and with insufficient power to examine death as an outcome. There was no difference in residual lung function between steroid and control groups at completion of treatment. The point estimates for secondary outcomes tended towards benefit with steroids rather than harm, but none were significant; number with pleural fluid (RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.06 to 1.34), number with pleural thickening (RR 0.76, 95% 0.48 to 1.21), and number with pleural adhesions (RR 0.30, 95% CI 0.03 to 2.66). Adverse effects were few and did not result in treatment being discontinued.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
There is insufficient evidence to know whether steroids are effective in tuberculous pleural effusion.
Topics: Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Humans; Tuberculosis, Pleural; Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
PubMed: 10796669
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001876 -
Tuberculosis (Edinburgh, Scotland) May 2020Diagnosing tuberculous pleurisy (TP) remains a clinical challenge and the best method to diagnose it is controversial. Although several studies have investigated the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Diagnosing tuberculous pleurisy (TP) remains a clinical challenge and the best method to diagnose it is controversial. Although several studies have investigated the performance of pleural fluid (PF) T-SPOT for pleural tuberculosis (plTB) diagnosis, the heterogeneity of its accuracy exists. Therefore, we performed an updated meta-analysis of the existing evidence on the utility of PF T-SPOT to diagnose TP.
METHODS
PubMed and EmBase were searched for relevant English articles up to July 29, 2019. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata, Revman, and Meta-Disc. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were determined. Summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to summarize the overall diagnostic performance.
RESULTS
A total of 13 studies (997 patients with TP and 656 patients without TP) were identified and enrolled to meta-analysis, giving the following pooled values for diagnostic accuracy of PF T-SPOT: sensitivity, 0.91 (95% CI, 0.89-0.92, I = 80.9%); specificity, 0.88 (95% CI, 0.86-0.91, I = 87.3%); PLR, 6.28 (95% CI, 2.88-13.69, I = 93.3%); NLR, 0.12 (95% CI, 0.07-0.21, I = 84.9%); DOR, 59.74 (95% CI, 24.13-147.93, I = 78.3%); and the area under the SROC curve, 0.95 (95% CI, 0.93-0.97).
CONCLUSIONS
Our meta-analysis suggests that PF T-SPOT has important diagnostic value for plTB. However, the standardization of the operating procedure needs to be further promoted, which would make the results more credible.
Topics: Host-Pathogen Interactions; Humans; Interferon-gamma; Interferon-gamma Release Tests; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Predictive Value of Tests; Reproducibility of Results; Tuberculosis, Pleural
PubMed: 32501259
DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2020.101941 -
Chest Apr 2007Conventional tests are not always helpful in making a diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. Many studies have investigated the usefulness of interferon (IFN)-gamma... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Conventional tests are not always helpful in making a diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. Many studies have investigated the usefulness of interferon (IFN)-gamma measurements in pleural fluid for the early diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. We conducted a metaanalysis to determine the accuracy of IFN-gamma measurements in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy.
METHODS
After a systematic review of English-language studies, sensitivity, specificity, and other measures of accuracy of IFN-gamma concentrations in the diagnosis of pleural effusion were pooled using random-effects models. Summary receiver operating characteristic curves were used to summarize overall test performance.
RESULTS
Twenty-two studies met our inclusion criteria. The summary estimates for IFN-gamma in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy in the studies included were as follows: sensitivity, 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87 to 0.91); specificity, 0.97 (95% CI, 0.96 to 0.98); positive likelihood ratio, 23.45 (95% CI, 17.31 to 31.78); negative likelihood ratio, 0.11 (95% CI, 0.07 to 0.16); and diagnostic odds ratio, 272.7 (95% CI, 147.5 to 504.2).
CONCLUSIONS
IFN-gamma determination is a sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. The measurement of IFN-gamma levels in pleural effusions is thus likely to be a useful tool for diagnosing tuberculous pleurisy. The results of IFN-gamma assays should be interpreted in parallel with clinical findings and the results of conventional tests.
Topics: Biomarkers; Confidence Intervals; Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Interferon-gamma; Pleural Effusion; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Tuberculosis, Pleural
PubMed: 17426220
DOI: 10.1378/chest.06-2273 -
Respiratory Medicine May 2008Conventional tests are not always helpful in making a diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. Many studies have investigated the usefulness of adenosine deaminase (ADA) in... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Conventional tests are not always helpful in making a diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. Many studies have investigated the usefulness of adenosine deaminase (ADA) in pleural fluid for the early diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. We conducted a meta-analysis to determine the accuracy of ADA measurements in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy.
METHODS
After a systematic review of English language studies, sensitivity, specificity, and other measures of accuracy of ADA concentration in the diagnosis of pleural effusion were pooled using random effects models. Summary receiver operating characteristic curves were used to summarize overall test performance.
RESULTS
Sixty-three studies met our inclusion criteria. The summary estimates for ADA in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy in the studies included were sensitivity 0.92 (95% confidence interval 0.90-0.93), specificity 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.89-0.91), positive likelihood ratio 9.03 (95% confidence interval 7.19-11.35), negative likelihood ratio 0.10 (95% confidence interval 0.07-0.14), and diagnostic odds ratio 110.08 (95% confidence interval 69.96-173.20).
CONCLUSIONS
ADA determination is a relative sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. Measurement of ADA in pleural effusion is thus likely to be a useful diagnostic tool for tuberculous pleurisy. The results of ADA assays should be interpreted in parallel with clinical findings and the results of conventional tests.
Topics: Adenosine Deaminase; Biomarkers; Clinical Enzyme Tests; Humans; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Odds Ratio; Pleural Effusion; ROC Curve; Sensitivity and Specificity; Tuberculosis, Pleural
PubMed: 18222681
DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2007.12.007 -
BMC Infectious Diseases Jun 2018Tuberculous pleurisy (TP) presents a diagnostic problem due to the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods. Different studies with the Xpert MTB/RIF assay have... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Tuberculous pleurisy (TP) presents a diagnostic problem due to the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods. Different studies with the Xpert MTB/RIF assay have drawn variable conclusions about its values in TP diagnosis. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess whether the Xpert MTB/RIF assay is appropriate for the diagnosis of TP using pleural fluid samples.
METHODS
A systematic search of four literature databases in English and Chinese language was performed to identify studies involving the use of Xpert MTB/RIF in patients with TP confirmed by plural biopsy and/or mycobacterial culture. Pooled sensitivity, specificity and accordance proportion were calculated, and the forest plots were generated to assess the accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF for TP diagnosis.
RESULTS
We identified 23 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert MTB/RIF were 30% (95% CI: 21-42%, I = 87.93%) and 99% (95% CI: 97-100%, I = 96.20%), respectively, and the area under the SROC curve (AUC) of Xpert MTB/RIF was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.83-0.89). Compared with drug susceptibility testing (DST), the pooled accordance rate of Xpert MTB/RIF in detecting rifampicin-susceptible cases and rifampicin-resistant cases was 99% (95% CI: 95-104%, I = 8.7%) and 94% (95% CI: 86-102%), respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
Our analysis suggests that the Xpert MTB/RIF assay is of limited value as a screening test for TP but has a high potential for confirming TP diagnosis and differentiating TP from non-TB diseases using pleural fluid samples.
Topics: Antibiotics, Antitubercular; Body Fluids; Drug Resistance, Bacterial; Humans; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Rifampin; Sensitivity and Specificity; Tuberculosis, Pleural
PubMed: 29940951
DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3196-4 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Oct 2007Corticosteroids used in addition to antituberculous therapy have been reported to benefit people with tuberculous pleurisy. However, research findings are inconsistent,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Corticosteroids used in addition to antituberculous therapy have been reported to benefit people with tuberculous pleurisy. However, research findings are inconsistent, raising doubt as to whether such treatment is worthwhile. Concern also exists regarding the potential adverse effects of corticosteroids, especially in HIV-positive people.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the effects of adding corticosteroids to drug regimens for tuberculous pleural effusion.
SEARCH STRATEGY
In May 2007, we searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2007, Issue 2), MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Current Controlled Trials, and reference lists of articles.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing any corticosteroid with no treatment, placebo, or other active treatment (both groups should receive the same antituberculous drug regimen) in people diagnosed with tuberculous pleurisy.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two authors independently assessed trial methodological quality and extracted data. Data were analysed using relative risks (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The fixed-effect model was applied in the absence of statistically significant heterogeneity.
MAIN RESULTS
Six trials with 633 participants met the inclusion criteria; one trial included only HIV-positive people. Compared to control, corticosteroid use was associated with less residual pleural fluid at four weeks (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.94; 394 participants, 3 trials) and reduced pleural thickening (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.94; 309 participants, 4 trials). We found no evidence of an effect of corticosteroids on death from any cause (194 participants, 1 trial), respiratory function (191 participants, 2 trials), residual pleural fluid at eight weeks (399 participants, 4 trials), or pleural adhesions (123 participants, 2 trials). Although discontinuation of treatment due to adverse events was more frequent in participants receiving corticosteroids than placebo (RR 2.80, 95% CI 1.12 to 6.98; 586 participants, 6 trials), the effects were generally mild. The risk of Kaposi sarcoma may be increased in HIV-positive people receiving corticosteroids (RR 13.00, 95% CI 0.74 to 227.63; 194 participants, 1 trial).
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
There are insufficient data to support evidence-based recommendations regarding the use of adjunctive corticosteroids in people with tuberculous pleurisy. Randomized controlled trials that are sufficiently powered to evaluate the effects of corticosteroids on both morbidity and mortality are needed. The effects of corticosteroids on HIV-related complications, such as Kaposi sarcoma, should be assessed in people co-infected with HIV.
Topics: Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Humans; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Tuberculosis, Pleural; Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
PubMed: 17943759
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001876.pub2