JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) is the fourth most prevalent cancer in both Indonesia and Asia. Globally, an estimated 133,354 cases and 80,008 deaths have been attributed to NPC. Early diagnosis plays a key role in managing NPC. Molecules found in body fluids, such as saliva, contain compounds (including miRNA) that can aid in detecting diseases like NPC. Further literature studies on expressions, role, use and accuracy of salivary miRNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma as a potential diagnosis biomarker are needed.

Objective:

This protocol provides a framework for conducting a scoping review aimed at mapping role, use, and diagnostic accuracy of specific salivary miRNA as a potential diagnosis biomarker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods:

The guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute will be followed, which include defining the research questions, identifying relevant studies, and selecting studies based on titles and abstracts. The process will involve charting the data, collating, summarizing, and reporting the findings, as well as consultation. The synthesis will specifically examine the expressions, role, use and accuracy of salivary miRNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma as a potential diagnosis biomarker of NPC. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses will be performed

Results:

The selection of studies based on keywords was completed in August 2024, and the study screening and review processes were finished by November 2024. The drafting of the scoping review manuscript is currently underway. The development of this scoping review protocol was supported by funding from the Centre for Higher Education Funding and the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study will offer a comprehensive overview of the expressions, role, use, and diagnostic accuracy of salivary miRNA as a potential diagnosis biomarker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The findings of this review are expected to serve as a basis for further research.