Multiple chemical sensitivity scoping review protocol: overview of research and MCS construct

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) involves adverse reactions to low-dose chemicals.
• Current scientific consensus on MCS as a distinct disorder is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive scoping review of the literature on multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS).
• To address key questions regarding MCS definitions, diagnostic criteria, prevalence, evidence for distinctness, proposed mechanisms, and evaluated treatments.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of literature guided by five research questions.
• Comprehensive search across 14 research databases with machine learning-supported citation screening.
• Eligibility assessment by two independent reviewers, data abstraction into evidence tables, and user-friendly evidence map visualization.

Main Results:

• The review will document existing research evidence on MCS.
• Results will be presented in concise evidence tables and a visualization.
• Formal consultation will incorporate input on review findings.

Conclusions:

• The study aims to synthesize current evidence on multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS).
• Findings will contribute to understanding the scientific basis and clinical aspects of MCS.
• Dissemination includes a journal manuscript and publicly accessible data.