title: Unlimited volumes of laboratory data: a confusing and diagnostically deceptive product of modern technology.
abstract: The large volumes of laboratory data currently available in clinical practice can lead to erroneous conclusions. Our current statistical interpretation of these data is univariate (one variable at a time) and often not age- and sex-corrected. Using an optimal technique of multivariate analysis, a SMAC profile of 19 tests performed on normal subjects resulted in over a 500% improvement in defining the reference range. Using physiologic subsets of the SMAC profile for patients, improvements in interpretation of between 100% and 300% are possible. Results indicate a serious clinical problem that will require modification of laboratory reports using modern technology as an adjunct for diagnostic medicine.
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards; D003201:Computers; D003625:Data Collection; D005431:Florida; D006745:Hospital Bed Capacity, 300 to 499; D008499:Medical Records; D012016:Reference Values