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Published on: October 3, 2019
Defining colchicine resistance/intolerance in patients with familial Mediterranean fever: a modified-Delphi consensus
Seza Özen1, Erdal Sag1, Eldad Ben-Chetrit2
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06100, Turkey.
Objectives:
Colchicine is the main treatment for FMF. Although a number of individuals with FMF are intolerant/resistant to colchicine, there is no standard definition of colchicine resistance/intolerance. We developed a set of evidence-based core statements defining colchicine resistance/intolerance in patients with FMF that may serve as a guide for clinicians and health authorities.
Methods:
A set of statements was identified using a modified-Delphi consensus-based approach. The process involved development of an initial colchicine resistance/intolerance-related questionnaire derived from a systematic literature review. The questionnaire, which was completed by an international panel of 11 adult and paediatric rheumatologists with expertise in FMF, was analysed anonymously. The results informed draft consensus statements that were discussed by a round-table expert panel, using a nominal group technique to agree on the selection and wording of the final statements.
Results:
Consensus among the panel was achieved on eight core statements defining colchicine resistance/intolerance in patients with FMF. A definition of resistance was agreed upon that included recurrent clinical attacks (average one or more attacks per month over a 3-month period) or persistent laboratory inflammation in between attacks. Other core statements recognize the importance of assessing treatment adherence, and the impact of active disease and intolerance to colchicine on quality of life.
Conclusion:
Based on expert opinion, a set of evidence-based core statements defining colchicine resistance/intolerance in patients with FMF were identified to help guide clinicians and health authorities in the management of patients with FMF.
Insights
New guidelines define colchicine resistance and intolerance in Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) patients. These evidence-based statements aid clinicians in managing FMF when colchicine treatment is ineffective or not tolerated.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Genetics
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is primarily treated with colchicine.
- A lack of standardized definitions for colchicine resistance and intolerance complicates FMF management.
- This study addresses the need for clear criteria to identify patients unresponsive to or unable to tolerate colchicine.
Framework:
- A modified-Delphi consensus-based approach was employed to develop core statements.
- Systematic literature review informed an initial questionnaire for expert rheumatologists.
- An international panel of 11 FMF experts participated in the consensus process.
Implementation:
- Eight core statements defining colchicine resistance/intolerance in FMF were established.
- Resistance criteria include recurrent attacks (≥1/month for 3 months) or persistent inflammation.
- Statements emphasize assessing treatment adherence and the impact of disease activity and intolerance on quality of life.
Implications:
- These evidence-based statements provide a guide for clinicians and health authorities in FMF patient management.
- Standardized definitions will improve the identification and treatment of colchicine-resistant/intolerant FMF cases.
- Enhanced management strategies can improve outcomes for patients with FMF.
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