Use of dornase alfa in cystic fibrosis: an Audit of Italian specialists

Background: The goal of mucoactive therapies in cystic fibrosis (CF) is to enhance sputum clearance and to reduce a progressive decline in lung function over the patient’s lifetime. We aimed to investigate the level of consensus among specialists from Italian CF Centers on appropriateness of therapeutic use of dornase alfa (rhDNase) for CF patients. Method: A consensus on appropriate prescribing in CF mucoactive agents was appraised by an online Delphi method, based on a panel of 27 pulmonologists, coordinated by a Scientific Committee of six experts in medical care of patients with CF. Results: Full or very high consensus was reached on several issues related to therapeutic use of dornase alfa for CF patients in clinical practice. Conclusions: Modified Delphi method was used to define the most appropriate use of dornase alfa in routine CF to improve lung function and long-term outcomes in patients, in agreement with international guidelines on CF management.