title: The BeLPT: algorithms and implications.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) is used to identify persons with beryllium sensitization. The variability of laboratory results and lack of a "gold standard" have led to questions about the test's performance. Fortunately, a recently published study has credibly estimated standard epidemiologic parameters for the BeLPT.
  
  
  METHODS
  Information from this recent study was used to assess the performance of two common algorithms for BeLPT testing. Standard epidemiologic parameters were determined for two common algorithms and then compared.
  
  
  RESULTS
  One of the two algorithms was more sensitive than the other (86% vs. 66%). The specificity of both algorithms (99.8% or greater) was high. At an estimated 2% prevalence, the positive predictive value of both algorithms for beryllium sensitization remained high (90% or higher).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A priori characterization of the testing algorithm under consideration can enhance public health decision-making.
authors.affiliation: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, Georgia. dcm2@cdc.gov
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Middleton
authors.forename: M D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Lewin
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Kowalski
authors.forename: S S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Cox
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kleinbaum
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001607:Berylliosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control; D001608:Beryllium / Q000276:immunology / Q000633:toxicity; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D007159:Immunologic Tests; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D001608:Beryllium