Estudios de exactitud diagnóstica: Herramientas para su Interpretación

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide basic tools for the interpretation of diagnostic accuracy studies, by analyzing the data that the contingency table provides. Concepts are given in the application and meaning of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values. Furthermore, by analyzing the pre-test and post-test probabilities, construction and implementation of the likelihood ratio are explained. The diagnostic odds ratio and its limitations are described. Finally, the importance of calculating confidence intervals is explained. Understanding the contingency table and the construction of the parameters that we can calculate from this, is essential for the critical evaluation and development of diagnostic accuracy studies, as well as their application in daily clinical work.