Correct treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic tests may include simple procedures such as physical signs or physical examination, as well as blood tests and radiologic imaging. Few diagnostic tests, however, can be relied on to yield accurate diagnoses 100% of the time. Thus, it is important to study the performance of diagnostic tests. Bossuyt et al stated: Exaggerated and biased results from poorly designed and reported diagnostic studies can trigger their premature dissemination and lead physicians into making incorrect treatment decisions. A rigorous evaluation process of diagnostic tests before introduction into clinical practice could not only reduce the number ...
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