Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare YR: 2012 VL: 18 NO: 2 PG: 72-78

Systematic review. The studies reviewed were of adults and children with CF, and incorporated telehealth for monitoring symptoms, assessing adherence to prescribed therapies or providing a therapeutic intervention.

Adults and children with CF

The use of telehealth in people with Cystic Fibrosis (CF).

Data on spirometry (FEV(1)) or symptoms.

Eight studies (approximately 200 participants) were included in the review, comprising two randomised controlled trials, one controlled study and five single group studies which included a case study. Five studies were classified as feasibility studies. The mean total quality score was 12 points from a potential total of 26 points on the Downs and Black checklist (range 4-18 points). One randomised controlled trial (n=7) found no differences between intervention and control groups in length of hospital stay, number of clinic visits or anxiety and depression scores in adolescent and adult patients. In the second randomised trial (n=60), half of the intervention group dropped out because of failure to transmit data. Most of the patients completing the study did not require assistance to collect or transmit data. Adherence in four studies ranged from 52 to 80% of possible occasions for data recording.Four studies evaluated collection and transmission of spirometry data; dropouts in these studies ranged from 43 to 63%. most of which were attributed to failure to comply with minimum data submission requirements. One trial of adolescent patients found oral antibiotic use was higher in the telehealth group in compared to the control group (p=0.02) .

There was insufficient evidence to draw firm conclusions regarding the benefit of telehealth interventions in patients with cystic fibrosis and further research is required in this area.