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A review of mortality from choroidal melanoma. I. Quality of published reports, 1966 through 1988
J A Markowitz1, B S Hawkins, M Diener-West
1Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md.
Abstract:
The literature concerning mortality after a diagnosis of choroidal melanoma was reviewed to identify relevant articles published from 1966 through 1988 and to select those with mortality rates presented separately by tumor size for inclusion in a pooled analysis (meta-analysis) of 5-year mortality after enucleation for choroidal melanoma. The quality of the published literature for our purposes was assessed. Candidate articles were identified from a search of the MEDLINE files by an information specialist. Altogether, of 217 candidate articles, 76 (70 from the MEDLINE search and six more from our files) qualified for review. All-cause mortality rates were reported in 80% of the articles. Among six aspects of design and methods for which information was sought, eligibility criteria were reported in 52 (68%) of the 76 articles and statistical methods were cited in 38 (50%); other information was reported with intermediate frequency. Quality scores based on completeness of reporting with respect to 16 factors ranged from 13.3 to 92.3 of a possible 100.0. Findings suggest that researchers, clinicians, journal editors, and reviewers should be more attentive to the completeness of reports from clinical research studies with respect to basic information regarding design and methods.
Insights
This review of choroidal melanoma literature found significant gaps in reporting study methods and design. Improved reporting is crucial for accurate mortality analysis and clinical decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Medical Research Methodology
Background:
- Mortality rates following choroidal melanoma diagnosis are critical for patient prognosis.
- Previous studies have varied in reporting detailed methodologies, impacting data synthesis.
- A comprehensive analysis requires literature with specific data on tumor size and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis of 5-year mortality rates after enucleation for choroidal melanoma.
- To identify and assess the quality of published literature from 1966-1988.
- To evaluate the completeness of reporting regarding study design and methods.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE and internal files for relevant articles.
- Inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting mortality rates by tumor size.
- Assessment of article quality based on reporting of design and statistical methods.
Main Results:
- 76 articles qualified for review out of 217 candidates.
- All-cause mortality rates were reported in 80% of the reviewed articles.
- Reporting completeness varied, with eligibility criteria in 68% and statistical methods in 50% of articles.
Conclusions:
- Significant deficiencies exist in the reporting of study design and methods in the choroidal melanoma literature.
- Enhanced attention to reporting standards by researchers, clinicians, and editors is recommended.
- Improved reporting is essential for reliable meta-analyses and informed clinical practice.
