International Collaborative Assessment of the Validity of the EAONO-JOS Cholesteatoma Staging System

Abstract

The EJS Staging system provides an internationally agreed standard for collecting data to classify cholesteatoma severity. Although data can be applied retrospectively with reasonable reliability, prospective data collection would prevent inaccuracies that arise from missing data fields. To enhance validity of the EJS system, we propose clearer definitions of some categories. Refinements to definitions of stage may improve prognostic utility of the EJS but should be made using evidence powered by large-scale collaboration.