Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Managing Aromatase Inhibitor-Related Arthralgia in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second most prevalent cause of mortality in women and the predominant malignancy type. However, breast cancer treatment faces challenges in managing aromatase inhibitor-induced arthralgia. Aromatase inhibitors have been shown to decrease recurrence risk in hormone receptor-positive cases; however, joint discomfort remains the primary adverse effect. Randomized clinical trials have evaluated the therapeutic outcomes of acupuncture for medication-related musculoskeletal complications. This comprehensive analysis sought to elucidate both the therapeutic efficacy and placebo responses associated with acupuncture intervention.
Two reviewers searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in four English (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) and four Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang Database, VIP, and SinoMed) from their inception to May 31, 2024. According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Statement 2020 and the Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Acupuncture: The PRISMA for Acupuncture Checklist, this meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models.
Seven trials involving 604 patients were reviewed. The primary outcome and Brief Pain Inventory score, differed between the acupuncture and control groups (sham acupuncture or usual medication) in three sub-scales over the course of 6 weeks: worst pain: standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.18, 95% confidence interval…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 604 participants or records.
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