Analytical approach:
The analysis was based on a cost-effectiveness framework in a hypothetical cohort of patients. A short time horizon was considered in the analysis, corresponding to the duration of treatment. The perspective adopted in the study was not explicitly stated.
Effectiveness data:
MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases were searched to identify relevant sources of data. Search criteria included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), case-control studies, and studies with a historical control group for filgrastim. Studies were reviewed independently by two authors. The evidence retrieved from the literature was synthesised in a meta-analysis. Twelve studies were identified including four RCTs, two non-randomised prospective studies and six retrospective reviews. A quality assessment of each study was made. The main endpoints of the analysis were time to absolute neutrophil count recovery, febrile neutropenia, and length of hospital stay.
Monetary benefit and utility valuations:
Not considered.
Measure of benefit:
No summary benefit measure was used as a cost-consequences analysis appeared to have been conducted. The main endpoints of the clinical analysis were time to absolute neutrophil count recovery, febrile neutropenia, and length of hospital stay.
Cost data:
The costs were restricted to injections of pegfilgrastim and filgrastim. Unit costs were provided by the Hellenic General Secretariat of Commerce. Quantities of resources used were based on conventional dosages. Costs were in Euros (EUR). The price year was 2011.
Analysis of uncertainty:
A deterministic sensitivity analysis was carried out to consider variations in the duration and price of treatment.