We followed previously validated procedures
for creating evidence-based guidelines9 and used the
Appraisal of Guidelinesfor Research and EvaluationII instrument as a framework.10 Members were divided into working
groups that addressed each of the three major sections (initial presentation,
ongoing management, and empiric antifungal therapy). Each
working group developed the key clinical questions to be addressed
by the guideline and identified and rated the importance of outcomes
relevant to the questions on a 9-point scale (Data Supplement
2). Ratings of 7 to 9 indicated that the outcome was critical
for a decision or recommendation; 4 to 6, that it was important;
and 1 to 3, that it was not important. The median ratings from
working group members established the importance of the outcomes
and guided recommendations.