Systematic evaluation of clinical practice guidelines for pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomics. 2018 Jun 1;19(8):693-700. doi: 10.2217/pgs-2018-0024. Epub 2018 May 23.

Abstract

Aim: To systematically assess methodological quality of pharmacogenomics clinical practice guidelines.

Methods: Guidelines published through 2017 were reviewed by at least three independent reviewers using the AGREE II instrument, which consists of 23 items grouped into 6 domains and 2 items representing an overall assessment. Items were assessed on a seven-point rating scale, and aggregate quality scores were calculated.

Results: 31 articles were included. All guidelines were published as peer-reviewed articles and 90% (n = 28) were endorsed by professional organizations. Mean AGREE II domain scores (maximum score 100%) ranged from 46.6 ± 11.5% ('applicability') to 78.9 ± 11.4% ('clarity of presentation'). Median overall quality score was 72.2% (IQR: 61.1-77.8%).

Conclusion: Quality of pharmacogenomics guidelines was generally high, but variable, for most AGREE II domains.

Keywords: AGREE II; clinical practice guidelines; evidence-based practice.

MeSH terms

  • Evidence-Based Medicine / standards*
  • Humans
  • Pharmacogenetics / standards*