Proposal for levels of evidence schema for validation of a soluble biomarker reflecting damage endpoints in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, and recommendations for study design

Walter P. Maksymowych, Oliver FitzGerald, George A. Wells, Dafna D. Gladman, Robert Landewé, Mikkel Østergaard, William J. Taylor, Robin Christensen, Paul Peter Tak, Maarten Boers, Silje W. Syversen, Joan M. Bathon, Christopher J. Ritchlin, Philip J. Mease, Vivien P. Bykerk, Patrick Garnero, Piet Geusens, Hani El-Gabalawy, Daniel Aletaha, Robert D. InmanVirginia Byers Kraus, Tore K. Kvien, Désirée Van Der Heijde

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective. At OMERACT 8 a framework for levels of evidence was proposed for the validation of biomarkers as surrogate outcome measures. We aimed to adapt this scheme in order to apply it in the setting of soluble biomarkers proposed to replace the measurement of damage endpoints in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). We also aimed to generate consensus on minimum standards for the design of longitudinal studies aimed at validating biomarkers. Methods. Before the meeting, the Soluble Biomarker Working Group prepared a preliminary framework and discussed various models for association and prediction related to the statistical strength domain. In addition, 3 Delphi exercises addressing longitudinal study design for RA, PsA, and AS were conducted within the working group and members of the Assessments in SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) and the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA). This formed the basis for discussions among OMERACT 9 participants. Results. The proposed framework was accepted by consensus. In the study design domain a requirement for both prospective observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) in different drug classes was noted.Atemplate for determining the level of statistical strength was proposed. The addition of a new domain on biomarker assay performance was considered essential, and participants suggested that for any biomarker this domain should be addressed first, i.e., before starting clinical validation studies. Participants agreed on most elements of a longitudinal study design template. Where consensus was lacking the working group has drafted solutions that constitute a basis for prospective validation studies. Conclusion. The OMERACT 9 Soluble Biomarker Group has successfully formulated a levels of evidence scheme and a study design template that will provide guidance to conduct validation studies in the setting of soluble biomarkers proposed to replace the measurement of damage endpoints in RA, PsA, and AS. The Journal of Rheumatology

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1792-1799
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Rheumatology
Volume36
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2009

Keywords

  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Biomarkers
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Structural damage
  • Study design

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rheumatology
  • Immunology
  • Immunology and Allergy

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