October

Measuring Performance of Diagnostic Tests

  1. Sensitivity and Specificity

  2. Positive and Negative Predictive Values

  3. Likelihood Ratio and Bayesian Theory

  4. Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves

Content Outline Learning Objectives:

  • Know the definition and method of calculation of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value

  • Know the limitations of positive and negative predictive values in relationship to disease prevalence when comparing diagnostic tests

  • Know the meaning of the clinical "likelihood ratio" (LR) and its effect on post-test odds of disease

  • Know the interpretation and application of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves

  • Recognize the importance of an independent "gold standard" in evaluating a diagnostic test

Annals of EM Gaddis Biostats 3.pdf
Annals of EM Likelihood Ratio.pdf
Grzybowski AEM ROC curves.pdf

Supplemental Reading:

Intuitive Biostatistics (4th Edition) Chapter 42


Classic article:

PECARN CBC Febrile Infant.pdf

QUIZ: