Latrogenesis imperfecta--a new pediatric problem.

In this medical age which relies heavily on electronic and technologic advances, the physician is often willing to place unwarranted confidence in laboratory data regarding his patients. In those unusual situations in which the patient is not directly examined, e.g., prospective screening or prenatal diagnosis, treatment errors can be made. These acts of commissions are initiated by interpretation of laboratory data and can result in detrimental effects to the patient. The term iatrogenesis imperfecta has been designated to describe this situation.