Diagnosis: Making the best use of medical data

Mark H. Ebell

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

To take the best possible care of patients, physicians must understand the basic principles of diagnostic test interpretation. Pretest probability is an important factor in interpreting test results. Some tests are useful for ruling in disease when positive or ruling out disease when negative, but not necessarily both. Many tests are of little value for diagnosing disease, and tests should be ordered only when the results are likely to lead to improved patient-oriented outcomes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)478-480
Number of pages3
JournalAmerican family physician
Volume79
Issue number6
StatePublished - Mar 15 2009

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Family Practice

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