The dangers of false-positive and false-negative test results: false-positive results as a function of pretest probability.
This article focuses on the following key points of improving clinicians' use of laboratory tests: (1) laboratory tests are always imperfect, but some are much more imperfect than others; (2) limitations in human cognition compound the potential for misinterpretation of test results; (3) false-positive and false-negative laboratory results can lead to serious patient harm; and (4) judicious use of laboratory tests can help mitigate potential harm from spurious results.
Jackson
Brian R
BR
ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA. brian.jackson@aruplab.com
D001499:Bayes Theorem; D003951:Diagnostic Errors / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005188:False Negative Reactions; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards*