P07 Identifying the primary outcome measure and protocol components for a prospective feasibility study of corticosteroid regimens for CYP with JIA using consensus methods with young people, families and professionals
Authors: Stones Simon R. , Bagley Heather , Beresford Michael W. , Jones Ashley , McErlane Flora , Moitt Tracy , Nkhoma Gloria , Sherratt Frances C. , Young Bridget , Baildam Eileen M. 
Published: October 2019

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an umbrella term for seven relapsing-remitting inflammatory conditions in children and young people (CYP). Early, intensive treatment can prevent long-term damage; however, established drugs exhibit a delayed response, prompting the need for rapid-onset treatment in the form of corticosteroids. Given a lack of consensus as to which corticosteroid induction regimen should be used for CYP with JIA, a feasibility trial of different regimens is needed. The aim was to achieve consensus among CYP, families, and healthcare professionals (HCPs) about the primary outcome measures and protocol components to include in a prospective feasibility study.

Methods

A modified Nominal Group Technique was used to achieve consensus on the most appropriate primary outcome measure to be included in a prospective feasibility study, in addition to other protocol components such as inclusion/exclusion criteria. Fifteen participants participated in the process, including a combination of CYP with JIA, families (n = 9) and HCPs (n = 6).

Results

In the first vote, participants agreed that Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (JADAS) and Physician Global Assessment Score were most meaningful. During sub-group discussions, the need for a composite score which captured the voice of CYP and families was emphasised. In the second vote, JADAS and the JIA Core Set were identified as the most important. Further discussions led to the results of the third vote, agreeing JADAS as the primary outcome measure of choice being measured at 6 weeks after commencement of treatment. The majority of HCPs, CYP and families voted for all JIA sub-types to be included in a prospective feasibility study, with some queries about the inclusion of systemic JIA given its unique presentation. Participants also identified the need for more frequent data collection time points to capture the rapid onset of corticosteroid action, while CYP and families opted for accessible mechanisms for participation, such as digital follow-up strategies.

Conclusion

It is feasible to include CYP, families and HCPs in synthesising complex concepts to agree by consensus the design components of clinical research. The primary outcome measure for inclusion in a prospective feasibility study of corticosteroid regimens in CYP with JIA was co-prioritised, with CYP and families taking a leading role in the ultimate selection of an appropriate outcome measure and other study protocol components. Using consensus methods with CYP, families and HCPs is a systematic and rigorous way in which to select outcome measures that are both meaningful and relevant to everyone involved in the care and treatment of CYP with JIA.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.