[The increased availability of self-tests for medical analyses].
A marked increase in the availability of diagnostic tests for use at home has been observed in recent years. There are regulations concerning the development and application of these tests. The question whether the increased use of self-tests is a positive or negative development cannot be answered easily. In some cases serious diseases may be detected in people who are reluctant to consult a physician. In other cases false negative test results may delay necessary treatment. Further exploration of the use, sensitivity, specificity, benefits and harms of specific tests is warranted.
Deutekom
M
M
Academisch Medisch Centrum/Universiteit van Amsterdam, Afd. Klinische Epidemiologie en Biostatistiek, J1b-210-1, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam. m.deutekom@amc.uva.nl
Bossuyt
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PM
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005188:False Negative Reactions; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity