IPD-MA Limitations

IPD-MA can require more logistics and funding than aggregate-data meta-analysis. The external validity of an IPD-MA depends on whether contributing studies represent broader LMIC paediatric populations. IPD-MA is only applicable when underlying individual patient data exist and can be accessed. Privacy, consent, pseudonymisation, and data protection governance can significantly constrain IPD-MA, especially for legacy paediatric trials. Harmonisation requires substantial effort because variables and measurements may differ across studies.