How to write a Critically Appraised Topic: evidence to underpin routine clinical practice

Abstract

Critically appraised topics (CATs) are essential tools for busy clinicians who wish to ensure that their daily clinical practice is underpinned by evidence-based medicine. CATs are short summaries of the most up-to-date, high-quality available evidence that is found using thorough structured methods. They can be used to answer specific, patient-orientated questions that arise recurrently in real-life practice. This article provides readers with a detailed guide to performing their own CATs. It is split into four main sections reflecting the four main steps involved in performing a CAT: formulation of a focused question, a search for the most relevant and highest-quality evidence, critical appraisal of the evidence and application of the results back to the patient scenario. As well as helping to improve patient care on an individual basis by answering specific clinical questions that arise, CATs can help spread and share knowledge with colleagues on an international level through publication in the evidence-based dermatology section of the British Journal of Dermatology.

Do mHealth applications improve clinical outcomes of patients with cancer? A critical appraisal of the peer-reviewed literature

“…The review of the literature used the format of a 'Critically appraised topic' (CAT). CATs are standardized summaries which draw together best available evidence to answer questions based on real clinical scenarios [18]. CATs follow principles of evidence-based medicine in four steps: The authors (1) form a focused and answerable question based on a clinical encounter, (2) search for the best available evidence, (3) critically appraise the evidence for validity and clinical relevance and (4) examine the application of the results to clinical practice and future research.…”

Introducing the new Evidence-Based Dermatology section

“…For further guidance on how to write a CAT see the paper by Callander et al . in this issue of the BJD …”

Optimizing case reports and case series: guidance on how to improve quality

“…Under the current guidance to authors, the closest the BJD has to an educational case report is a Critically Appraised Topic (CAT). This is a formalized literature review that is framed by a clinical case, and its methods have been recently described …”

“…This is a formalized literature review that is framed by a clinical case, and its methods have been recently described. 18 For reports that describe unusual findings or simple messages, the BJD has the Image Gallery section, where the visually arresting and thought-provoking cases can be published. Lastly, if your report generates a new hypothesis, this is our preferred type of manuscript for the Case Reports section.…”