Clinics and Practice

11 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Robotic-Assisted Radical Cystectomy: Single-Center Analysis of Factors Impacting Clavien ≥ II Complications

by Maria Chiara Sighinolfi, Tommaso Calcagnile, Enrico Panio, Simone Assumma, Luca Sarchi, Marco Sandri, Emanuela Santangelo, Michele Petix, Mattia Sangalli, Filippo Turri, Giorgio Bozzini, Marcio Covas Moschovas, Vipul Patel and Bernardo Rocco

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1790-1800; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050143 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2024

Abstract

Despite the advent of robotics and the decreasing rate of complications after radical cystectomy, several factors are renowned to impair the early outcomes of this procedure. The aim of this paper is to provide a multivariate analysis (MVA) of patient and surgical procedure-related [...] Read more.

Despite the advent of robotics and the decreasing rate of complications after radical cystectomy, several factors are renowned to impair the early outcomes of this procedure. The aim of this paper is to provide a multivariate analysis (MVA) of patient and surgical procedure-related variables likely to affect postoperative course and 30-day complication rate. Fifty-five robotic-assisted radical cystectomies (RARCs) performed at a single center from July 2021 to March 2023 were enrolled. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, and intraoperative and postoperative data were collected. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship with Clavien ≥ II complications arising within 30 days of surgery. A postoperative Clavien ≥ II complication was evident in 15 patients (28%), whereas Clavien ≥ III occurred only in 5 (9%). At MVA, the only independent predictor of Clavien ≥ II complications was a prior neoadjuvant chemotherapy (OR 5.6; 95% CI 1.22–25.3, p = 0.026). Recognized the small sample size, patients who received a prior NAC should deserve special care within the postoperative course. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2023 Feature Papers in Clinics and Practice)

11 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Demographic Profile and Clinical Characteristics of Adults with Down Syndrome in North-Eastern Romania

by Nicoleta Lefter, Irina Mihaela Abdulan, Alexandra Maștaleru, Maria-Magdalena Leon and Cristina Rusu

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1779-1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050142 - 30 Aug 2024

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Abstract

(1) Background: Down syndrome is characterized by physical abnormalities, intellectual disability (ID), and specific patterns of other health issues. Additionally, individuals with DS are known to experience premature aging and early onset of certain age-related medical conditions. These conditions are linked to higher [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Down syndrome is characterized by physical abnormalities, intellectual disability (ID), and specific patterns of other health issues. Additionally, individuals with DS are known to experience premature aging and early onset of certain age-related medical conditions. These conditions are linked to higher incident disability and reduced survival rates compared to the general population. (2) Methods: Between July 2022 and February 2024, we conducted a prospective, observational study in the Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Clinic at Iasi Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital. The study included 28 patients diagnosed with Down Syndrome and a control group. Interdisciplinary interventions were tailored to address the needs of a complex patient, incorporating cardiological, endocrinological, genetical, biological and developmental support. Data on physical health, cognitive development, and psychosocial well-being were collected. (3) Results: Our DS group consisted of 11 (39%) females and 17 (61%) males. Their age ranged from 20 to 55 years with a mean of 28.07 ± 9.51. All patients were unmarried, living in urban areas, without a partner but with family support. In the study sample, 96.4% of participants had three or more comorbidities. (4) Conclusions: The high prevalence of multimorbidity, combined with little medication, contributes to a high level of clinical complexity, which appears to be similar to the one of the older non-trisomic population. As individuals with Down syndrome transition into adulthood, they may require a more comprehensive and holistic approach to their healthcare. Full article

12 pages, 1331 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrolyte Imbalance in Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: Insights from the First 24 h

by Alina Săcărescu and Mihaela-Dana Turliuc

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1767-1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050141 - 30 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Electrolyte disturbances are common in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly affecting sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium levels. This study aims to provide insights into these disturbances within the first 24 h post-injury. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 50 TBI patients, [...] Read more.

Electrolyte disturbances are common in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly affecting sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium levels. This study aims to provide insights into these disturbances within the first 24 h post-injury. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 50 TBI patients, excluding those with conditions affecting electrolyte balance. Electrolyte levels were measured, and correlations with demographic data, trauma mechanisms, imaging findings, and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores were analyzed. The results indicated that chloride levels inversely correlated with GCS scores (ρ = −0.515; p = 0.002), suggesting that elevated chloride may indicate severe neurological impairment. Potassium levels were significantly associated with subdural hematoma (p = 0.032) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (p = 0.043), highlighting their potential as markers for severe brain injuries. No significant associations were found between sodium or calcium levels and the studied variables. These findings underscore the importance of early monitoring of chloride and potassium levels in TBI patients to improve management and outcomes. Future research should focus on larger, multi-center studies to validate these findings and develop comprehensive guidelines for managing electrolyte imbalances in TBI patients. Full article

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14 pages, 1541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Survey of Practice and Factors Affecting Physiotherapist-Led Health Promotion for People at Risk or with Cardiovascular Disease in Cameroon

by Etienne Ngeh Ngeh, Sionnadh McLean, Christopher Kuaban, Rachel Young and Joanne Lidster

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1753-1766; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050140 - 29 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and associated risk factors are a growing concern in Cameroon. Physiotherapists (PTs) can play a crucial role in prevention and management. However, the extent of Cameroonian PT involvement in health promotion (HP) activities remains unclear. This study assessed Cameroonian [...] Read more.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and associated risk factors are a growing concern in Cameroon. Physiotherapists (PTs) can play a crucial role in prevention and management. However, the extent of Cameroonian PT involvement in health promotion (HP) activities remains unclear. This study assessed Cameroonian physiotherapists’ current HP practices for people at risk of or with CVDs (pwCVDs). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered online to PTs practising in Cameroon. Results: Out of 181 PT responses, 95% reported providing a variety of HP activities, including weight management (74%), dietary advice (73%), physical activity (69%), smoking cessation (69%), stress management (61%), and sleep promotion (48%). While PTs were confident in lifestyle assessments, they felt less confident about sleep interventions. Strong beliefs, confidence, team support, and time allocation enhanced HP practice. However, preference for passive modalities, patient adherence issues, organisational challenges, role ambiguity among healthcare providers, inadequate training opportunities, and the absence of established guidelines for CVD prevention negatively affect HP practice. Conclusions: These findings highlight the challenges and opportunities for enhancing HP delivery within the physiotherapy profession in Cameroon. The findings are useful for future strategies by clinical practitioners and policy makers to address barriers and leverage facilitators effectively for scaling up HP initiatives in Cameroon. Full article

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9 pages, 941 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Disciplinary Imbalances in Urology and Gynecology Research Publications within Functional Urology

by Sümeyye Kozan, Mohammad Sajjad Rahnamai, Jasmin Ataei, Janina Dombrowski and Laila Najjari

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1744-1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050139 - 29 Aug 2024

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Abstract

(1) Background: This study aimed to quantify and evaluate the publication rate and discrepancies of functional urology abstracts from international conferences, and to explore the interdisciplinary contributions of urology and gynecology to the field. (2) Methods: A retrospective bibliometric and content analysis was [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study aimed to quantify and evaluate the publication rate and discrepancies of functional urology abstracts from international conferences, and to explore the interdisciplinary contributions of urology and gynecology to the field. (2) Methods: A retrospective bibliometric and content analysis was conducted on abstracts presented between 2015 and 2019 at the EAU and ICS congresses, focusing on functional-urological keywords. A discrepancy scoring system ranging from 0 (minor discrepancies) to 3 (significant discrepancies) assessed the consistency between conference abstracts and full-text publications, and an in-depth analysis determined the disciplinary origin of these publications. (3) Results: Between 2015 and 2019, 53% of EAU and 57% of ICS congress abstracts were published as full-text articles, with minor discrepancies in 38% of EAU and 49% of ICS publications, and significant discrepancies in 17% from both. Urology departments dominated publications, contributing 68% at EAU and 55% at ICS, whereas gynecology contributed only 1% at EAU and 12% at ICS. (4) Conclusions: This study illuminates the need for improved reporting standards and interdisciplinary collaboration in functional urology, as well as increased gynecology research in functional urology-related fields, suggesting that addressing these issues is crucial for advancing the field and enhancing patient care. Full article

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7 pages, 2296 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

A Safety-Centric Study on the Use of Inflatable Abdominal Binders for Managing Orthostatic Hypotension

by Milan Toma, Rejath Jose, Faiz Syed and Timothy Devine

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1737-1743; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050138 - 29 Aug 2024

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Abstract

The study focuses on the design and evaluation of inflatable abdominal binders for managing Orthostatic Hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is a condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure when a person stands up, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and even [...] Read more.

The study focuses on the design and evaluation of inflatable abdominal binders for managing Orthostatic Hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is a condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure when a person stands up, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. The management of orthostatic hypotension typically involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. In the context of this research, an inflatable abdominal binder was designed, leveraging components that are not only economically viable but also easily obtainable. The evaluation of this device was conducted using a medical education manikin, specifically the CAE iStan manikin. The results demonstrated a correlation between the inflation values of the belt and the resulting pressure values exerted on the body. The general recommendation for an abdominal binder is to exert a pressure of 20–40 mmHg. Contrary to this, the study found that to maintain safe external pressure on the abdomen, the binder should not be inflated over 25 mmHg. This safety threshold was used as a reference point in the study, suggesting a potential need to revisit the standard recommendations for abdominal binder pressure. Further research is needed to assess the device’s effectiveness in human subjects and to potentially redefine the safe and effective pressure range for abdominal binders. Full article

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21 pages, 4127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accelerated Orthodontics: A Descriptive Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 50 Cited Articles from 2012 to 2023

by Ahmed A. Alsulaiman and Osama A. Alsulaiman

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1716-1736; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050137 - 29 Aug 2024

Viewed by 563

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Accelerated orthodontics represents a significant shift in dental practice aimed at reducing treatment times while maintaining optimal patient outcomes. This bibliometric analysis evaluated the research landscape of accelerated orthodontics from 2012 to 2023, focusing on publication trends, citation patterns, influential [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Accelerated orthodontics represents a significant shift in dental practice aimed at reducing treatment times while maintaining optimal patient outcomes. This bibliometric analysis evaluated the research landscape of accelerated orthodontics from 2012 to 2023, focusing on publication trends, citation patterns, influential journals, leading institutions, and key contributors. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search in Scopus identified 600 relevant articles, with the top 50 most-cited papers encompassing systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and experimental studies. Key techniques, such as corticotomy and piezocision, have been frequently highlighted for their effectiveness in expediting tooth movement. Results: The analysis revealed fluctuating annual scientific outputs, with notable peaks driven by technological advancements and increased patient demand for quicker orthodontic solutions. However, the production of high-impact papers was hindered by delays in citation accumulation and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Keyword analysis identified critical themes, such as orthodontic tooth movement, malocclusion, and demographic factors, while a global collaboration map underscored extensive international research partnerships. Leading journals included the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, and prominent institutions such as the University of California at Los Angeles played significant roles in advancing the field. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of accelerated orthodontics, emphasizing the need for continued research, particularly RCTs, to further refine and validate accelerated orthodontic techniques and improve clinical outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends, Materials, and Technologies and Consolidating Best Practices in Dentistry)

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9 pages, 1650 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Hard and Soft Tissue Facial Landmarks for Mandibular Angle Reduction: A Clinical Study

by Fei-Fan Tseng, Yu-Hsuan Li and Yuan-Wu Chen

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1707-1715; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050136 - 27 Aug 2024

Viewed by 324

Abstract

Background: Square faces, which are influenced by genetic factors and structural features, are considered undesirable among the Asian population. Surgical interventions, such as mandibular angle reduction, aim to alter these characteristics, though complications may arise. We aimed to investigate the morphology of the [...] Read more.

Background: Square faces, which are influenced by genetic factors and structural features, are considered undesirable among the Asian population. Surgical interventions, such as mandibular angle reduction, aim to alter these characteristics, though complications may arise. We aimed to investigate the morphology of the mandibular angle and masseter muscle thickness using computed tomography (CT) and to analyze hard and soft tissue correlations to enhance surgical outcomes for patients with square faces. Methods: This retrospective clinical study included 100 Taiwanese patients aged 18–50 years. CT was used to analyze key clinical parameters, including bilateral mandibular width, mandibular divergence angle, ramus height, distance from the mandibular angle to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), and the thickness of the masseter muscle. Results: Significant correlations were noted between the patients’ physical height and weight, mandibular width, ramus height, masseter thickness, and distance from the angle to the IAN. Males exhibited a significantly longer and thicker ramus height (66.48 ± 4.28 mm), greater masseter thickness (15.46 ± 2.35 mm), and greater safety range for mandibular angle reduction surgery (18.35 ± 3.19 mm) (p < 0.00008). Significant correlations were observed among all parameters, except between mandibular width and gonial angle and the distance from the angle to the IAN and between mandibular divergence and masseter muscle thickness (p > 0.1). Conclusions: Our study highlighted the complex interplay among factors that contribute to square facial morphology. Careful preoperative assessments and customized surgical planning are essential for addressing this multifaceted clinical challenge. Full article

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11 pages, 804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Role of Adalimumab in Treating Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Findings from a Retrospective Study at a Reference Center

by Austėja Šakaitytė, Inga Česnavičiūtė and Tadas Raudonis

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1696-1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050135 - 27 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by inflammatory lesions, often leading to scarring. Managing HS can be difficult, requiring biological therapy, specifically adalimumab. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients diagnosed with HS and treated with the [...] Read more.

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by inflammatory lesions, often leading to scarring. Managing HS can be difficult, requiring biological therapy, specifically adalimumab. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients diagnosed with HS and treated with the TNF-α inhibitor adalimumab. Data from 21 patients were included in this study. International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System (IHS4); Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); pain intensity according to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); and number of nodules, abscesses, and fistulas were assessed. Results: Notably, 47.62% of patients achieved Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response. The mean number of inflamed nodules decreased from 5.62 ± 4.12 to 3 ± 3.46, abscesses decreased from 1.76 ± 2.63 to 0.81 ± 1.4, and fistulas decreased from 2.62 ± 1.86 to 2 ± 1.9 (p < 0.05). The IHS4 score decreased from 19 ± 10.78 to 12.62 ± 11.13 (p = 0.001), DLQI from 15.76 ± 7.73 to 7.43 ± 7.76 (p < 0.001), and VAS from 6.69 ± 1.56 to 3.64 ± 2.65 (p < 0.001). There was a significant difference in the baseline IHS4 scores between patients who had prior surgery with a mean score of 23.86 ± 9.4 versus non-surgical patients with a mean IHS4 score of 9.29 ± 5.53 (p = 0.001). Conclusions: About half of HS patients responded positively to adalimumab treatment; the use of the drug reduces inflammatory lesions, and pain, and improves quality of life. Full article

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14 pages, 1817 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison between Conventional and Simple Measuring Methods of Mean Nocturnal Baseline Impedance in Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

by Radu Samuel Pop, Lăcrămioara Eliza Chiperi, Vlad-Ionuț Nechita, Sorin Claudiu Man and Dan Lucian Dumitrașcu

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1682-1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050134 - 27 Aug 2024

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Abstract

(1) Background: Multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH (MII-pH) monitoring is commonly used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) is an important parameter, reflecting the esophageal mucosal integrity and improvement in GERD. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH (MII-pH) monitoring is commonly used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) is an important parameter, reflecting the esophageal mucosal integrity and improvement in GERD. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between conventionally measured MNBI and a recently described simple MNBI measurement method in diagnosing pediatric GERD. (2) Methods: This prospective observational study enrolled 64 children aged one month to 18 years who underwent 24 h MII-pH monitoring. Conventional MNBI was measured during stable 10 min intervals at night, while the simple MNBI method averaged impedance throughout the nocturnal supine period. (3) Results: Strong correlations were found between conventional and simple MNBI values across all impedance channels in both infants (r > 0.85) and older children (r > 0.9). Conventional and simple MNBIs in the most distal channel (Z6) effectively differentiated non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) from other phenotypes, with AUCs of 0.864 and 0.860, respectively. The simple MNBI demonstrated good diagnostic performance with similar sensitivity and specificity to the conventional MNBI. (4) Conclusions: Including MNBI measurements into routine MII-pH monitoring may enhance GERD diagnosis and reduce the need for more invasive procedures. Full article

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13 pages, 8678 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Intraductal Papillary Neoplasms of the Bile Duct: Clinical Case Insights and Literature Review

by Luca Toti, Tommaso Maria Manzia, Francesca Di Giuliano, Eliseo Picchi, Laura Tariciotti, Domiziana Pedini, Luca Savino, Giuseppe Tisone and Roberta Angelico

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1669-1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050133 - 27 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Background: Intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct (IPNB) are rare precancerous lesions with implications for the development of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Recognizing IPNB and managing its recurrence pose challenges in clinical practice. We present two cases. Case 1: a 60-year-old man presented with [...] Read more.

Background: Intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct (IPNB) are rare precancerous lesions with implications for the development of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Recognizing IPNB and managing its recurrence pose challenges in clinical practice. We present two cases. Case 1: a 60-year-old man presented with an 8 × 8 × 9 cm hepatic cyst initially suspected to be a hydatid cyst. Histology post-resection revealed an IPNB with foci of adenocarcinoma. Despite negative oncologic margins, recurrence occurred eight years later as an rT2N0 lesion. Surgical resection was performed without adjuvant chemotherapy, resulting in the patient’s survival at 48 months post-surgery. Case 2: a 28-year-old female with cognitive impairment was admitted with pulmonary embolism and a liver lesion diagnosed as a simple cyst. Subsequent evaluation revealed adenocarcinoma with local metastases, extensive vascular involvement, and thrombosis. Despite aggressive management, including thrombectomy and chemotherapy, the patient’s condition deteriorated, leading to hepatic failure and eventual demise. Conclusion: IPNB represents a rare premalignant subtype with a propensity for progression to CCA. R0 surgical resection typically offers favorable oncological outcomes with a minimal recurrence risk. Surgical intervention for localized resectable recurrence is both safe and feasible. International registries tracking IPNB recurrence are essential for advancing understanding and optimizing diagnosis, management, and treatment strategies. Full article

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19 pages, 556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fonseca’s Questionnaire Is a Useful Tool for Carrying Out the Initial Evaluation of Temporomandibular Disorders in Dental Students

by Valeria Mitro, Angela Rosa Caso, Federica Sacchi, Massimiliano Gilli, Guido Lombardo, Gabriele Monarchi, Stefano Pagano and Antonio Tullio

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1650-1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050132 - 26 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a prevalent multifactorial condition that impacts a significant portion of the global population. The objective of this study was to employ Fonseca’s questionnaire for an initial assessment of TMDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a [...] Read more.

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a prevalent multifactorial condition that impacts a significant portion of the global population. The objective of this study was to employ Fonseca’s questionnaire for an initial assessment of TMDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 250 undergraduates from the Dental School of the University of Perugia, Italy. The chi-square test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05, was used to evaluate a statistically significant relationship between TMDs and several variables such as gender, age, employed/unemployed, and physically active or not. Results: The data obtained through the questionnaire indicated that a considerable percentage of students (78%) exhibited signs consistent with TMDs. The most frequently reported signs and symptoms included psychological stress (49.6%), dental clenching and grinding (34%), joint clicking (33.6%), frequent headaches (15.2%), and neck pain (23.2%). Notably, when considering moderate to severe symptoms of TMDs, females were more significantly affected than males. Furthermore, factors such as age, employment status, and physical activity did not appear to influence the prevalence of TMDs. Conclusions: The high prevalence of TMDs identified within this young population (university students), as measured by this questionnaire (albeit warranting validation through more rigorous methodologies) underscores the necessity for the implementation of new preventive strategies that specifically address this demographic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Outcome Research in the Head and Neck)

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25 pages, 607 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Assessment of the Validity and Quality of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Screening Tools Available for Women Globally: A Systematic Review

by Lea Sacca, Diana Lobaina, Elisheva Knopf, Sara Burgoa, Samantha Jimenez, Goodness Okwaraji, Madison Etzel, Vartiter Vardanyan, Madison Tharp, Meera Rao, Vama Jhumkhawala, Joshua Sohmer, Sebastian Densley, Niko Linzer, Pranav Meka, Daniella Diaz, Michelle Knecht, Dawn Kimberly Hopkins, Panagiota Kitsantas, Maria Mejia and Candy Wilson Show full author list Hide full author list

Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(5), 1625-1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14050131 - 23 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Background: This systematic review has the following aims: (1) to identify measurement tools used globally by healthcare providers to diagnose PCOS in women at elevated risk; (2) to assess the comprehensiveness of these tools regarding mental health and chronic pain; (3) to list [...] Read more.

Background: This systematic review has the following aims: (1) to identify measurement tools used globally by healthcare providers to diagnose PCOS in women at elevated risk; (2) to assess the comprehensiveness of these tools regarding mental health and chronic pain; (3) to list strategies for validating, disseminating, and implementing these tools; and (4) to provide future recommendations for experts in healthcare settings. Methods: This review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and the Arksey and O’Malley York methodology. Studies were sourced from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, with inclusion criteria focusing on peer-reviewed articles addressing PCOS diagnosis and associated comorbidities. Data extraction and analysis followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) recommendations. Results: A total of 63 studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that current screening tools for PCOS often lack comprehensive integration of mental health and chronic pain assessments. Tools like the PCOSQ and its updated version, PCOSQ-50, inadequately address pain-related symptoms, highlighting a gap in holistic patient evaluation. This review identified significant associations between PCOS and mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, emphasizing the need for mental health screenings as part of PCOS management. Conclusions: There is a critical need for validated PCOS screening tools that encompass both physical and psychological aspects of the condition. Educating healthcare providers on the cultural and social determinants influencing PCOS can improve diagnosis and patient outcomes. Future research should focus on developing holistic screening tools and culturally relevant educational resources, aiming to enhance the overall quality of life for women with PCOS. Full article

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Clin. Pract., Volume 14, Issue 5 (October 2024) – 13 articles

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