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A novel classification system for research reporting in rare and progressive genetic conditions
Author(s) -
Karnebeek Clara D M,
Beumer Daniël,
Pawliuk Colleen,
Goez Helly,
Mostafavi Sara,
Andrews Gail,
Steele Rose,
Siden Harold
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
developmental medicine and child neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.658
H-Index - 143
eISSN - 1469-8749
pISSN - 0012-1622
DOI - 10.1111/dmcn.14180
Subject(s) - inter rater reliability , confidence interval , delphi method , kappa , delphi , psychology , medicine , statistics , computer science , mathematics , rating scale , geometry , operating system
Aim To create a classification system for severe, rare, and progressive genetic conditions for use in research reporting. Method A modified Delphi consensus technique was used to create and reach agreement on a new system of condition categories. Interrater reliability was tested via two rounds of an online survey whereby physicians classified a subset of conditions using our novel system. Overall percentage agreement and agreement above chance were calculated using Fleiss’ kappa ( κ ). Results Eleven physicians completed the first Delphi, with an overall agreement of 76.4%, the κ value was 0.57 (95% confidence interval 0.51–0.63), indicating moderate agreement (0.41–0.60) above chance. Based on the first survey several categories were described in more detail. The second survey confirmed a classification system with 12 categories, with an overall percentage agreement among the participants of 82.6%. The overall mean κ value was 0.71 (95% confidence interval 0.65–0.77), indicating substantial agreement (0.61–0.80). Interpretation Our new system was useful in categorizing a broad range of rare childhood diseases and may be applicable to other rare disease studies; further validation in larger cohorts is required. What this paper adds This novel 12‐category classification system can be used in research reporting in rare and progressive genetic conditions.