Developing evidence-based Korean medicine clinical practice guidelines for pediatric anorexia.

BACKGROUND

Pediatric anorexia is a common condition that can adversely affect the physical growth, nutritional status, and psychosocial development of children. Despite the clinical relevance of Korean medicine, standardized treatment guidelines rooted in the same have not yet been established. This study aimed to develop evidence-based Korean Medicine Clinical Practice Guidelines (KM-CPGs) for pediatric anorexia to support clinical decision-making and ensure safe and effective care.

METHODS

The KM-CPG were developed using evidence-based methodologies, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and expert consensus (Delphi method). The level of evidence and grade of recommendation were derived using the grading of recommendation assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS

A total of 15 key recommendations were derived for Korean medicine interventions, which included herbal medicine, acupuncture, Chuna manual therapy, and acupoint herbal patching, either as monotherapies or in combination with conventional medicine. Most Korean medicine interventions showed moderate to low levels of evidence, but demonstrated meaningful improvements in anorexia-related outcomes, with a low risk of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

The KM-CPG for pediatric anorexia present standardized, evidence-based guidance on Korean medicine treatments and may serve as a foundation for improved clinical care and further research.