Differential diagnostic test technology: sensitivity and specificity, an OIE validation perspective.

Companion differential diagnostic technology is extremely useful when utilized with marker vaccines for disease control and eradication. Examples of this technology include enzyme-linked immunoassays and particle concentration fluorescence immunoassays. The predictive values of such assays are dependent upon adequate validation of their diagnostic sensitivities and specificities. The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) has put forth official guidelines for performing complete validation of diagnostic tests. This article presents an overview of these important guidelines.