RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Multiple chemical sensitivity scoping review protocol: overview of research and MCS construct
JF BMJ Open
JO BMJ Open
FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group
SP e072098
DO 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072098
VO 13
IS 9
A1 Hempel, Susanne
A1 Danz, Margie
A1 Robinson, Karen A
A1 Bolshakova, Maria
A1 Rodriguez, Jesus
A1 Mears, Alanna
A1 Pham, Cindy
A1 Yagyu, Sachi
A1 Motala, Aneesa
A1 Tolentino, Danica
A1 Akbari, Omid
A1 Johnston, Jill
YR 2023
UL http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/9/e072098.abstract
AB Introduction Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) has been characterised by reported adverse responses to environmental exposures of common chemical agents (eg, perfumes, paint, cleaning products and other inhaled or ingested agents) in low doses considered non-toxic for the general population. There is currently no consensus on whether MCS can be established as a distinct disorder.Methods and analysis The scoping review of the literature will be guided by five questions: How is MCS defined and which diagnostic criteria have been proposed? What methods are used to report prevalence and incidence estimates of MCS? What are the characteristics of the body of scientific evidence that addresses whether MCS is a distinct disorder or syndrome? What underlying mechanisms for MCS have been proposed in the scientific literature? Which treatment and management approaches for MCS have been evaluated in empirical research studies? We will conduct a comprehensive search in 14 research databases. Citation screening will be supported by machine learning algorithms. Two independent reviewers will assess eligibility of full-text publications against prespecified criteria. Data abstraction will support concise evidence tables. A formal consultation exercise will elicit input regarding the review results and presentation. The existing research evidence will be documented in a user-friendly visualisation in the format of an evidence map.Ethics and dissemination Determined to be exempt from review (UP-22-00516). Results will be disseminated through a journal manuscript and data will be publicly accessible through an online data repository.Registration details The protocol is registered in Open Science Framework (osf.io/4a3wu).