The electronic nose in lung cancer diagnostics: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Early-stage detection is pivotal for curative interventions, yet most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Noninvasive point-of-care diagnostic strategies are needed to reduce lung cancer mortality rates. We assess the potential of electronic nose (eNose) devices as a tool for lung cancer detection. Study design and methods: All online available databases were searched. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we reviewed studies using eNose for Results: We included 35 studies, comprising 4483 patients. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.90 (95% CI 0.87-0.93) and 0.89 (95% CI 0.85-0.93), respectively. The median negative predictive value was 0.93 and the median area under the curve was 0.91. Both the likelihood of bias and concerns regarding applicability were minimal. Interpretation: eNose devices hold promise as noninvasive, point-of-care tools for lung cancer diagnosis. Owing to the high sensitivity and negative predictive values and great ease of use, they could be valuable additions to the diagnostic toolbox. Further research and validation efforts are critical to maximise their impact on early lung cancer detection.