Predictive and Prognostic Biomarkers in Pediatric Intussusception-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Biomarker Research
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Pediatric intussusception affects children aged 6-18 months, requiring prompt diagnosis to prevent complications like ischemia.
• Predictive and prognostic biomarkers are crucial for early diagnosis, severity assessment, and treatment of pediatric intussusception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize research on biomarkers for pediatric intussusception.
• To evaluate biomarkers aiding in early diagnosis, severity assessment, and outcome prediction.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• Adherence to PRISMA guidelines with independent screening and data extraction.
• Inclusion of 47 studies (over 20,000 patients) with quality assessment.

Main Results:

• Identified hematological, inflammatory, biochemical, and molecular biomarkers associated with disease severity.
• Elevated inflammatory markers and ratios predicted necrosis, ischemia, and surgery; serum lactate and D-dimer correlated with ischemic severity.
• Novel molecular biomarkers show potential for early, non-invasive risk stratification, but heterogeneity limits current application.

Conclusions:

• Biomarker research can enhance pediatric intussusception management, improving diagnosis and prognosis.
• Novel molecular and protein biomarkers offer potential for specific, rapid assessment.
• Multicenter, prospective studies and standardized protocols are needed for clinical implementation.