Getting the most from review articles: a guide for readers and writers.

A good medical review article is easily readable and pares down the seemingly overwhelming amount of information available in the literature. The research experience and clinical expertise of the writer do not guarantee valid and relevant recommendations. Uncritical acceptance of information by readers further potentiates the dissemination of misinformation. Only through teamwork, with each partner--both writer and reader--taking responsibility for a role, can review articles result in improved patient care. This article offers guidance to both consumers and producers--readers and writers-of review articles.