Assessing quality of a diagnostic test evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a standardized scale for assessing the quality of a diagnostic test evaluation.

DESIGN

Fourteen participants with formal and practical experience in evaluating diagnostic tests formed a consensus panel. Panel members identified and weighted questions that should be addressed when assessing the quality of a diagnostic test evaluation.

SETTING

General internal medicine division at an academic medical center.

RESULTS

A 19-item weighted scale was developed. It prioritizes and addresses issues such as description of the proposed purpose of the test; appropriate selection and description of the study population; appropriate performance and description of the diagnostic test; appropriate selection and performance of the reference standard; and adequate presentation of test characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The scale is proposed as a useful instrument for readers, investigators, reviewers, and editors, because it represents an updated synthesis of important criteria to consider when evaluating diagnostic tests. It can also be used to rate quantitatively the quality of diagnostic test evaluations.