Role of Salivary Biomarkers in Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Saliva biomarkers could be easily used as a noninvasive alternative tool for diagnosing cystic fibrosis (CF) disease. In this study, the significance of changes in salivary compositions in patients with CF was systematically reviewed. METHODS: An electronic search was utilized to include studies published in English, with case-control, cohort, or cross-sectional design. The evaluated salivary components were extracted and summarized. The included studies were assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist. RESULTS: Out of 498 identified studies, nine met the eligibility criteria. Salivary electrolytes showed a substantial alteration in the CF group, especially with chloride and sodium. Total protein concentration was higher in patients with CF. However, SCN- concentration was lower in patients with CF. In addition, a reduction in the salivary flow rate and amylase levels was found in patients with CF. CONCLUSION: Alterations in salivary biomarkers among patients with CF could be used as a promising diagnostic tool for cystic fibrosis.