[Mathematical coupling and "regression to the mean". A statistical case history].
"Regression to the mean" (RTM) is a statistical phenomenon originating from the random variation of variables rather than a true association between the variables. RTM is closely linked to mathematical coupling; unawareness of these phenomena may lead to misinterpretation of data. A study examining intracranial pressure before and after infusion of manitol is presented, in which mathematical coupling caused a highly significant (but spurious) correlation between the analysed data. The significance of RTM and mathematical coupling is demonstrated by analysis of a data set derived from random numbers.
Møller
K
K
H:S Rigshospitalet, RHIMA-Centret.
Dirksen
A
A
D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D004234:Diuretics, Osmotic / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D007427:Intracranial Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D008353:Mannitol / Q000494:pharmacology; D012044:Regression Analysis
D004234:Diuretics, Osmotic; D008353:Mannitol