Consensus definitions in imported human schistosomiasis: a GeoSentinel and TropNet Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Medical parasitology
• Clinical tropical medicine
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Inconsistent terminology in schistosomiasis hinders accurate data interpretation and clinical communication.
• Lack of standardized definitions complicates understanding of schistosomiasis in migrant populations and returning travelers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish consensus on definitions for key clinical aspects of schistosomiasis.
• To improve clarity in scientific and clinical communication regarding schistosomiasis in specific populations.

Main Methods:

• The Delphi method was employed with 28 invited experts from GeoSentinel and TropNet networks.
• Multiple rounds of blinded surveys using a 5-point Likert scale were conducted via REDCap.
• Consensus was defined by high agreement (79-100%) and low interquartile range (IQR ≤1).

Main Results:

• High-level consensus was achieved for all proposed definitions of schistosomiasis clinical aspects.
• Agreement rates ranged from 79% to 100% for the consensus definitions.
• The study successfully quantified expert agreement and disagreement through iterative rounds.

Conclusions:

• The developed consensus definitions will standardize scientific and clinical communication on schistosomiasis.
• Harmonized terminology is crucial for advancing research and developing evidence-based management guidelines.
• This initiative addresses a critical need for clarity in the field of schistosomiasis.