title: Diagnostic prediction rules: principles, requirements and pitfalls.
abstract: This article focuses on the background, principles, requirements, and pitfalls of diagnostic prediction rules. Useful rules can only be derived from methodologically valid data bases. By considering the possibilities and limitations of prediction rules, the author concludes that these rules may support medical decision making, but cannot be a substitute for clinical skills and solid pathophysiologic knowledge.
authors.affiliation: Department of General Practice, University of Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Knottnerus
mesh_terms: D003661:Decision Support Techniques; D003933:Diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000379:methods*