Development and validation of a consensus methodology for the classification of the ANCA-associated vasculitides and polyarteritis nodosa for epidemiological studies

摘要: Background: The classification of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) and polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) for epidemiology studies is confusing. existing schemes such as American College Rheumatology (ACR) criteria, Chapel Hill Consensus Conference (CHCC) definitions Lanham criteria produce overlapping conflicting classifications, making it difficult to compare incidence figures. Aim: To develop a consensus method using these epidemiological permit comparison without confounding by classification. Methods: A stepwise algorithm was developed between group doctors interested in the vasculitis. aim categorise patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis, microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), Churg–Strauss syndrome (CSS) PAN into single clinically relevant categories. ACR CSS, granulomatosis were applied first, considered be most specific. Surrogate markers included distinguish from MPA. MPA classified CHCC definition surrogate renal Finally, definition. validated application 20 cases each centre 99 centre, followed paper case exercise. Results: four-step devised. It successfully categorises There good correlation observers exercise (91.5%; unweighted κ = 0.886). Conclusion: achieves its reliably classifying category. use should geographical areas.