Korean J Med.
2014 Nov;87(5):548-556. 10.3904/kjm.2014.87.5.548.
Observational Cohort Studies in Rheumatic Diseases
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Rheumatology, Hanyang University Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Seoul, Korea. sungyk@hanyang.ac.kr
- KMID: 2269195
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2014.87.5.548
Abstract
- Rheumatic diseases are diverse groups characterized by a variety of clinical manifestations and disease courses in each patient. The best way to understand the course and prognosis of these patients is through observational cohort studies. The cohort studies also provide an opportunity to describe diseases outcomes including therapeutic responses and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of new therapy. It helps to understand disease pathogenesis and provide insight into the mechanisms of disease progression. The strengths of a cohort study are that it has a large number of patients over a long period of time. The patients in cohorts should be representative of the patients with diseases. Thoughtful study design and planning before establishment of cohorts will lead successful follow-up and increase data quality. The observation process must be clearly defined and followed according to the standard protocols.We reviewed numerous cohorts in rheumatic diseases and suggested the points to be considered for cohorts establishments.
