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Scientific Reports Jun 2024This systematic review aimed to synthesize the current evidence regarding neck sensorimotor testing in individuals with neck pain, assess the differences between neck... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
This systematic review aimed to synthesize the current evidence regarding neck sensorimotor testing in individuals with neck pain, assess the differences between neck pain groups and healthy controls, and recognize factors that might affect test results. We performed the data search using PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. We used a two-step screening process to identify studies. Furthermore, we screened the reference lists for additional studies. Hedges g was used to present the difference between neck pain groups and asymptomatic individuals. We assessed the quality of the studies using the QUADAS tool. The final review included 34 studies, of which 25 were related to the joint position error test, four to the smooth pursuit neck torsion test and six to the balance test. Our meta-analysis showed poorer joint-position sense, oculomotor function, and wider postural sway in individuals with neck pain than healthy controls. The size of the difference between the groups seemed to be influenced by the intensity of the pain and the presence of dizziness. Therefore, it might be helpful in future studies to differentiate patients with neck pain into subgroups based on their symptom and demographic profiles to assess other factors that significantly affect cervical sensorimotor control.
Topics: Humans; Neck Pain; Postural Balance
PubMed: 38834665
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63545-3 -
BMJ Open May 2024To systematically assess the diagnostic accuracy of CXCL13 testing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for neurosyphilis diagnosing. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
To systematically assess the diagnostic accuracy of CXCL13 testing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for neurosyphilis diagnosing.
DESIGN
Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES
PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases from their inception until 1 May 2023.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Both cross-sectional and case-control diagnostic test studies evaluating the diagnostic value of CSF CXCL13 in diagnosing neurosyphilis were included, with no language restrictions.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS
Two researchers extracted data independently from all finally included articles. The updated Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Quantitative synthesis was done using a bivariate random-effects model.
RESULTS
This meta-analysis included seven eligible studies involving a total of 1152 patients with syphilis and 430 patients with neurosyphilis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity and summary area under the curve (AUC) of CSF CXCL13 testing for the diagnosis of neurosyphilis were 0.76 (95% CI 0.64 to 0.85; I=82%), 0.83 (95% CI 0.80 to 0.85; I=32.29%) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.87), respectively. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the combined results. Meta-regression analysis revealed that the heterogeneity of pooled sensitivity was related to different study regions; subgroup analysis indicated that the diagnostic value of CSF CXCL13 testing reported in studies from China was superior to that reported in non-Chinese studies (pooled sensitivity, specificity and summary AUC values were 0.84 I=0) vs 0.64 (I=79.53%), 0.83 (I=42.03%) vs 0.83 (I=32.87%) and 0.87 vs 0.83, respectively). The diagnostic value reported in studies with a sample size ≥200, unclassified neurosyphilis and HIV-negative subgroups was superior to the total combined value.
CONCLUSIONS
This meta-analysis has demonstrated a reasonable level of accuracy for diagnosis of neurosyphilis with CSF CXCL13 testing. Further multicentre, prospective diagnostic studies, especially in asymptomatic neurosyphilis and HIV-infected patients, are needed to provide more evidence for evaluation before clinical application.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER
CRD42023414212.
Topics: Humans; Neurosyphilis; Chemokine CXCL13; Sensitivity and Specificity; Biomarkers
PubMed: 38821573
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078527 -
Cureus Apr 2024Choledocholithiasis presents variably, with some patients remaining asymptomatic, complicating decisions regarding the timing and necessity of endoscopic retrograde... (Review)
Review
The Influence of Symptomatic Status on Post-endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Complications in Choledocholithiasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Choledocholithiasis presents variably, with some patients remaining asymptomatic, complicating decisions regarding the timing and necessity of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This study represents the first meta-analysis assessing the impact of symptomatic status on post-ERCP complications and provides critical data to optimize treatment strategies. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar through February 2024, focusing on comparing ERCP outcomes between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with choledocholithiasis. Seven studies were included from an initial pool of 1,200 articles screened. The analysis revealed that asymptomatic patients exhibited a significantly higher overall complication rate (17.4% vs. 6.6%), including a threefold increase in the risk of developing complications overall (OR: 3.02; 95% CI: 2.26-4.03) and specifically post-ERCP pancreatitis (OR: 3.62; 95% CI: 2.63-4.99). Perforation and procedural durations were also notably higher among asymptomatic individuals. Subgroup analyses highlighted prolonged cannulation times and the use of precut sphincterotomy as potential influential factors. These findings challenge the current practice that does not differentiate based on symptomatic status and suggest a need for more tailored approaches in managing asymptomatic individuals to minimize risks associated with ERCP.
PubMed: 38817520
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59322 -
Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery May 2024A fistulous tract in the mitro-aortic intervalvular fibrosa (MAIVF) is a rare entity, which presents as a complication of endocarditis or surgical trauma. Generally, it...
BACKGROUND
A fistulous tract in the mitro-aortic intervalvular fibrosa (MAIVF) is a rare entity, which presents as a complication of endocarditis or surgical trauma. Generally, it is associated to a pseudoaneurysm of the MAIVF (p-MAIVF) or aortic abscesses. MAIVF fistulas could potentially lead to devastating complications and a high mortality rate. This condition is managed surgically, either by a percutaneous closure or an open surgical approach. Herein we report the complex case of a patient with a MAIVF fistula secondary to bacterial endocarditis. Further clinical deterioration was caused by severe aortic valve insufficiency and hemodynamic compromise, requiring surgical intervention.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 74-year-old male patient was admitted to a primary care center with complaints of malaise, asthenia, adynamia, hyporexia, and lower limb edema over the past eight days. His past medical history is positive for arterial hypertension and being monorenal. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was performed, exhibiting a 56% left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and complicated aortic valve endocarditis. Surgical management through an open approach included vegetation resection, valve replacement, and closure of the MAIVF fistula. After completing antibiotic therapy, the patient was discharged without complications. During postoperative follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic, and the control echocardiogram showed no signs of MAIVF fistula.4.
CONCLUSIONS
The clinical case of a patient with a MAIVF fistula secondary to endocarditis by Streptococcus Anginous was presented. The fistulous tract was not associated to p-MAIVF or aortic abscess, findings which further deteriorate the patient's condition and increase the likelihood of fatality. This case reinforces the importance of a prompt diagnosis through cardiac imaging and timely surgical closure of the defect.
Topics: Humans; Male; Aged; Endocarditis, Bacterial; Aortic Valve; Mitral Valve; Echocardiography, Transesophageal; Fistula
PubMed: 38807242
DOI: 10.1186/s13019-024-02736-5 -
Journal of Personalized Medicine Apr 2024Spontaneous orbital cephaloceles are a rare condition. The purpose of this study is to provide a description of a clinical case and to carry out a systematic literature... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Spontaneous orbital cephaloceles are a rare condition. The purpose of this study is to provide a description of a clinical case and to carry out a systematic literature review.
METHODS
A systematic review of the English literature published on the Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted, according to the PRISMA recommendations.
RESULTS
A 6-year-old patient was admitted for right otomastoiditis and thrombosis of the sigmoid and transverse sinuses, as well as the proximal portion of the internal jugular vein. Radiological examinations revealed a left orbital mass (22 × 14 mm) compatible with asymptomatic orbital meningocele (MC) herniated from the superior orbital fissure (SOF). The child underwent a right mastoidectomy. After the development of symptoms and signs of intracranial hypertension (ICH), endovascular thrombectomy and transverse sinus stenting were performed, with improvement of the clinical conditions and reduction of the orbital MC. The systematic literature review encompassed 29 publications on 43 patients with spontaneous orbital MC. In the majority of cases, surgery was the preferred treatment.
CONCLUSIONS
The present case report and systematic review highlight the importance of ICH investigation and a pathophysiological-oriented treatment approach. The experiences described in the literature are limited, making the collection of additional data paramount.
PubMed: 38793047
DOI: 10.3390/jpm14050465 -
Dentistry Journal May 2024Some patients exhibit temporomandibular joint or muscular disorders of the masticatory system before, during, or after orthognathic surgery (OS). These are collectively... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Some patients exhibit temporomandibular joint or muscular disorders of the masticatory system before, during, or after orthognathic surgery (OS). These are collectively referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). This systematic literature review aimed to determine the relationship between orthodontic-surgical treatment and TMDs.
METHODS
An electronic search of the PubMed database, supplemented by a manual search, was performed; the search included any studies published between 2021 (date of the last search in a systematic review of the literature on the subject) and June 2023 that evaluate the prevalence of TMDs during orthodontic-surgical treatment. The diagnosis of TMDs had to be established using the diagnostic algorithm "diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMDs)", and the diagnosis of disc displacement had to be confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The data were extracted and statistically analyzed.
RESULTS
Of the 100 results, seven eligible articles were included, representing a total of 529 cases undergoing orthodontic-surgical treatment. A reduction in joint noises (64.8%), arthralgia (57 to 77%), and myalgia (73 to 100%) was found after orthodontic-surgical treatment despite the fact that a minority of patients exhibited these signs and symptoms even though they were asymptomatic before treatment. The effects of OS on disc position were objectively unpredictable. After surgery, the presence of headaches decreased without significance and the risk of their occurrence was very low (1%). The studies converged toward a reduction in the amplitudes of mouth opening and lateral/protrusion movements. Finally, after the treatment, mandibular function was improved.
CONCLUSION
Under the conditions of this study, OS seems to have a positive impact on the signs and symptoms of TMDs; however, it is not possible to predict the consequential effects on the position of the TMJ disc, whether it is initially in a normal position or displaced.
PubMed: 38786530
DOI: 10.3390/dj12050132 -
Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024(1) Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most frequent complications in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) may be a... (Review)
Review
(1) Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most frequent complications in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) may be a risk factor for UTIs and graft rejection. We aimed to evaluate available evidence regarding the benefit of screening and treatment of ASB within the first year after KT. (2) Evidence acquisition: A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library CENTRAL and Embase. Inclusion criteria were manuscripts in English addressing the management of ASB after KT. The PICO questions concerned Patients (adults receiving a KT), Intervention (screening, diagnosis and treatment of ASB), Control (screening and no antibiotic treatment) and Outcome (UTIs, sepsis, kidney failure and death). (3) Evidence synthesis: The systematic review identified 151 studies, and 16 full-text articles were evaluated. Seven were excluded because they did not evaluate the effect of treatment of ASB. There was no evidence for a higher incidence of lower UTIs, acute pyelonephritis, graft loss, or mortality in patients not treated with antibiotics for ASB. Analysis of comparative non-randomized and observational studies did not provide supplementary evidence to guide clinical recommendations. We believe this lack of evidence is due to confounding risk factors that are not being considered in the stratification of study patients.
PubMed: 38786170
DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13050442 -
PLOS Global Public Health 2024Syndromic management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is common in settings with limited access to diagnostic testing. However, this approach does not capture...
Asymptomatic infections with Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis among women in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Syndromic management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is common in settings with limited access to diagnostic testing. However, this approach does not capture asymptomatic STIs. Untreated asymptomatic infections may result in serious complications and sequelae in women. We aimed to estimate the proportion and the prevalence of asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) infections among women in low- and middle-income countries. We searched Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published between 2000 and 2022. We used random effect models to compute the proportion and prevalence estimates and performed sub-group analysis. We evaluated the quality of each article using the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies and performed sensitivity analyses. This study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022286673. Forty-eight eligible studies were included. The proportion of asymptomatic CT, NG, and TV infections were: 60.7% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 50.4; 70.5], 53.3% [37.1; 69.1], and 56.9% [44.6; 68.9], respectively. The proportion of women with asymptomatic infections was the highest in Africa for the three pathogens. The pooled prevalence of asymptomatic CT, NG, and TV infection was 4.70 per 100 women [95%CI: 3.39; 6.20], 3.11 [1.34; 5.54], and 5.98 [3.46; 9.12], respectively. More than half of the women infected by CT, NG, or TV were asymptomatic. To avoid undiagnosed and untreated asymptomatic infections leading to complications, alternative approaches to syndromic management urgently need to be considered.
PubMed: 38781286
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003226 -
European Thyroid Journal Jun 2024Subclinical thyroid diseases are often the subject of debate concerning their clinical significance, the appropriateness of diagnostic testing, and possible treatment....
BACKGROUND
Subclinical thyroid diseases are often the subject of debate concerning their clinical significance, the appropriateness of diagnostic testing, and possible treatment. This systematic review addresses the variation in international guidelines for subclinical hyperthyroidism, focusing on diagnostic workup, treatment, and follow-up recommendations.
METHODS
Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, and guideline-specific databases and included clinical practice guidelines with recommendations on subclinical hyperthyroidism. Guideline recommendations were extracted, and quality assessment was performed using selected questions of the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument.
RESULTS
Of the 2624 records screened, 22 guidelines were included, which were published between 2007 and 2021. Guideline quality was generally intermediate to low. Diagnostic approaches differed substantially, particularly in the extent of recommended testing. Treatment initiation depended on TSH levels, age, and comorbidities, but the level of detail regarding defining precise comorbidities varied. Recommendations for monitoring intervals for follow-up ranged from 3 to 12 months.
CONCLUSION
This review underscores the existing variability in (inter)national guidelines concerning subclinical hyperthyroidism. There isa need for clear recommendations in guidelines considering diagnostic workup, treatment, and follow-up of subclinical hyperthyroidism. In order to establish this, future research should focus on determining clear and evidence-based intervention thresholds.
Topics: Humans; Hyperthyroidism; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Asymptomatic Diseases
PubMed: 38758966
DOI: 10.1530/ETJ-24-0036 -
SAGE Open Medicine 2024Uterine fibroids are the commonest benign tumors of the reproductive tract in women of childbearing age. They are usually asymptomatic but can cause menorrhagia.... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Uterine fibroids are the commonest benign tumors of the reproductive tract in women of childbearing age. They are usually asymptomatic but can cause menorrhagia. Treatments include myomectomy and uterine artery embolization (UAE). The latter is a relatively new procedure, therefore of special interest.
OBJECTIVES
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all published studies to provide a comprehensive outlook on the effectiveness of UAE by comparing its outcomes to those of myomectomy. Electronic databases (PubMed and Cochrane Central) were systematically searched from January 2000 to March 2022 for published randomized control trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses that compared UAE to myomectomy for at least one of the pre-specified outcomes, namely re-intervention rates, length of hospital stay, and complications.
METHODS
We shortlisted nine studies for the final analysis. For continuous outcomes, results from random-effects meta-analysis were presented as mean differences (MDs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous outcomes were pooled using a random-effects model.
RESULTS
The final analysis consisted of nine studies. Factors like re-intervention, hospitalization, and complications, each with its unique follow-up duration were assessed. Pooled analysis demonstrated significant results for greater re-intervention rates with UAE as compared to myomectomy (RR: 2.16, 95% CI: (1.27-3.66), value 0.004, heterogeneity = 85%). UAE holds a greater but statistically insignificant risk for major complications (RR: 0.62, 95% CI: (0.29-1.33), value 0.22, heterogeneity = 0%) and myomectomy shows a statistically insignificant greater risk for minor complications (RR: 1.72, 95% CI: (0.92-3.22), value 0.09, heterogeneity = 0%). UAE had a shorter but statistically insignificant duration of hospital stay (MD: -1.12, 95% CI: (-2.50 to 0.27), value 0.11, heterogeneity = 96%) (value for subgroup differences = 0.005).
CONCLUSION
Our meta-analysis of approximately 196,595 patients demonstrates that myomectomy results in a significant reduction in re-intervention rate compared to UAE.
PubMed: 38751568
DOI: 10.1177/20503121241236141