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Assessing and investigating children with suspected bone and abdominal tumours: an e-Delphi consensus process
Dhurgshaarna Shanmugavadivel1, Jo-Fen Liu2, Ashley Gamble3
1Lifespan and Population Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK shaarnashan@doctors.org.uk.
BMJ Paediatrics Open
|March 3, 2023
Summary
New guidelines for diagnosing childhood bone and abdominal tumors are established. This aims to improve early detection and optimize outcomes for young cancer patients, addressing diagnostic delays.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pediatrics
- Clinical Guideline Development
Background:
- Childhood cancer incidence has increased by 15% since the 1990s.
- Diagnostic delays are common due to non-specific presenting symptoms in children.
- A clinical guideline is needed for suspected pediatric bone or abdominal tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a clinical guideline for diagnosing bone and abdominal tumors in children and young people.
- To establish consensus among healthcare professionals on best practices for early detection.
Main Methods:
- A Delphi consensus process involving primary and secondary healthcare professionals.
- Development of 65 statements based on evidence review.
- Ranking of statements using a 9-point Likert scale over two rounds.
Main Results:
- Consensus was achieved on all 65 statements after two rounds.
- High agreement (94%) was reached on most statements in the first round.
- Consensus emphasized clinical consultation best practices, parental instinct, and pediatrician advice over adult referral pathways.
Conclusions:
- A new clinical guideline for suspected pediatric bone and abdominal tumors has been developed.
- The guideline will be implemented in primary and secondary care.
- Findings will inform public awareness tools for the Child Cancer Smart campaign.
