RESUMO
Background: Diarrhea is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide. However, current standard diagnostic methods have many drawbacks. This review examines various non-invasive point-of-care (POC) tests and biomarkers aiding rapid diagnosis of diarrhea from different causes. Methods: PubMed, PubMed Central, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched from 2013 to present for relevant literature. Two reviewers independently assessed included studies' quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist. Results: The search yielded 1453 studies, of which 39 were included after screening and applying eligibility criteria. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was the POC test in 25 studies, providing consistent sensitivity and specificity. For biomarkers, C-reactive protein (CRP), fecal calprotectin, and procalcitonin offered high sensitivity and specificity for conditions like acute pediatric diarrhea, microscopic colitis, and inflammatory diarrhea, respectively. Conclusion: PCR proved the ideal POC test for rapid diarrhea diagnosis, while the procalcitonin biomarker helps differentiate inflammatory from non-inflammatory diarrhea. Other reviewed tools also demonstrated promising diagnostic performance, though improvements in sensitivity, specificity, and usability are still needed.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Vitiligo, an autoimmune skin disorder linked to hormonal and genetic factors, results in reduced pigmentation due to a gradual decline in melanocyte activity. This systematic review delves into the role of dietary intervention and nutrition in managing vitiligo. METHODS: A comprehensive search on PubMed, Google Scholar, and European PMC identified 214 studies, with 14 meeting inclusion criteria post-screening. The selected studies primarily explored the impact of dietary supplements on disease activity. RESULTS: Heavy metal exposure, specifically Cd, Pb, and Hg, indicated potential links to heightened reactive oxygen species and vitiligo development. Conflicting evidence emerged regarding the role of trace minerals (Zn and Cu), with some studies suggesting deficiencies and others proposing excesses in vitiligo patients. Vitamins with anti-inflammatory properties like vitamin C, D, and B12, along with antioxidants, were investigated for their potential in repigmentation strategies. Additionally, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially in varying types of fat consumption, were implicated. Emphasizing the need to reduce reliance on pharmacological and phototherapy interventions, the review uncovers novel roles for dietary supplements as adjuncts or flare reducers. CONCLUSION: While dietary interventions cannot be thought of as a standalone therapy, they still make a case for being used as adjuncts. Large scale clinical trials are warranted to establish strong evidence and protocols, and might also help reduce the dependency on pharmacological methods, which come with their adverse effect profiles.
