Determining a diagnostic cut-off on the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) for cocaine dependence.
OBJECTIVE
The study aimed to assess the efficacy of the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) as a diagnostic measure of cocaine dependence and determine the cut-off score that best discriminates between the presence and absence of a DSM-IV diagnosis of cocaine dependence.


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey.


METHODS
Sydney, Australia.


METHODS
One hundred and forty-two cocaine users.


METHODS
The diagnostic performance of the SDS was measured via ROC analysis against DSM-IV diagnoses of cocaine dependence, as measured by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI).


RESULTS
ROC analysis revealed the SDS to be a test of high diagnostic utility for the measurement of cocaine dependence. The cut-off point on the SDS at which there is optimal discrimination between the presence and absence of a DSM-IV diagnosis of cocaine dependence was found to be 3 (i.e. a score of 3 or more).


CONCLUSIONS
The study statistically validated the utility of the SDS as a diagnostic measure of cocaine dependence and has determined an appropriate cut-off point. The SDS is recommended as a brief screening instrument for cocaine dependence that can be used in addition to more comprehensive measures, such as the CIDI.
Kaye
Sharlene
S
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Darke
Shane
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011594:Psychometrics; D012372:ROC Curve; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012720:Severity of Illness Index