A consensus approach to the formulation of guidelines for laboratory testing and reporting of antiphospholipid antibody assays

Despite numerous past and ongoing efforts, there remains significant variation in results from assays for the major antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), namely anticardiolipin (aCL), anti-beta 2 glycoprotein I (anti-beta 2GPI), and lupus anticoagulant (LA). There is therefore a need to produce comprehensive guidelines on laboratory testing and reporting of aPL assays. However, because of the paucity of good-quality published evidence, there is a heavy reliance on expert opinion, and thus the existing consensus guidelines for aPL testing and reporting are largely eminence based rather than evidence based. This may potentially bias recommendations to reflect the personal preferences of those who have the greatest influence during the guideline formulation process. This article largely details the experience of the Australasian Anticardiolipin Working Party in undertaking a consensus approach to formulation of guidelines on aCL and anti-beta 2GPI testing and reporting, including measures taken to minimize these issues. Despite the time-consuming nature of the process, given the paucity of good-quality published evidence, formulation of guidelines by the consensus process remains an important initiative to improve the standardization of aPL testing and reporting.