Practice parameters and strength of recommendation data: a variable compass

Allergy-immunology practice parameters and strength of recommendation data: an evolutionary perspective

BACKGROUND

The practice parameters for allergy and immunology (A/I) are a valuable tool guiding practitioners' clinical practice. The A/I practice parameters have evolved over time in the context of evidence-based medicine milestones.

OBJECTIVES

To identify evolutionary trends in the character, scope, and evidence underlying recommendations in the A/I practice parameters.

METHODS

Practice parameters that have guided A/I from 1995 through 2014 were analyzed. Statements and recommendations with strength of recommendation categories A and B were considered to have a basis in evidence from controlled trials.

RESULTS

Forty-three publications and updates covering 25 unique topics were identified. There was great variability in the number of recommendations made and the proportion of statements with controlled trial evidence. The mean number of recommendations made per practice parameter has decreased significantly, from 95.8 to a mean of 38.3. There also is a trend toward an increased proportion of recommendations based on controlled trial evidence in practice parameters with fewer recommendations, with a mean of 30.7% in practice parameters with at least 100 recommendations based on controlled trial evidence compared with 48.3% in practice parameters with 30 to 100 recommendations and 51.0% in those with fewer than 30 recommendations.

CONCLUSION

The A/I practice parameters have evolved significantly over time. Encouragingly, greater controlled trial evidence is associated with updated practice parameters and a recent trend of more narrowly focused topics. These findings should only bolster and inspire confidence in the utility of the A/I practice parameters in assisting practitioners to navigate through the uncertainty that is intrinsic to medicine in making informed decisions with patients.