AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGISTS/AMERICAN COLLEGE OF ENDOCRINOLOGY CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Bone Metabolism
• Clinical Practice Guidelines
• Osteoporosis Management

Background:

• Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential for evidence-based medical decision-making.
• The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) and American College of Endocrinology (ACE) have established protocols for CPG development.
• Previous guidelines require updates to incorporate new evidence and therapeutic options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated, evidence-based clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of post-menopausal osteoporosis.
• To offer practical recommendations for endocrinologists, physicians, and other healthcare stakeholders.
• To incorporate new findings on osteoporosis diagnosis, risk stratification, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of clinical evidence adhering to AACE/ACE guidelines for guidelines protocols.
• Incorporation of subjective factors alongside objective evidence for comprehensive recommendations.
• Analysis of 368 citations with varying evidence levels (EL 1-4) to support recommendations.

Main Results:

• The 2020 updated guideline includes 52 recommendations: 21 Grade A (40%), 24 Grade B (46%), and 7 Grade C (14%).
• The evidence base comprises 33.5% EL 1, 36% EL 2, 5.5% EL 3, and 25% EL 4 citations.
• Key updates include clarified osteoporosis diagnosis, high-risk patient stratification, a new dual-action therapy option, and guidance on therapeutic transitions.

Conclusions:

• The guideline provides a practical tool for managing post-menopausal osteoporosis.
• Recommendations facilitate nuanced, real-world clinical decision-making for patient care.
• The updated guideline addresses critical aspects of osteoporosis management, from diagnosis to treatment.