Understanding diagnostic test accuracy studies and systematic reviews: A primer for medical radiation technologists

Abstract

Diagnostic test accuracy studies are performed in order to determine the value of a diagnostic test. Primary studies of diagnostic accuracy describe the accuracy of a test calculated using the number of true and false positive and negative cases of a given diagnosis of interest. Systematic reviews of diagnostic test accuracy are performed to identify accuracy of a test but also to investigate where the test might sit in a diagnostic pathway or determine how different tests compare against each other. This introductory discussion paper aims to give the reader an overview of the various features in primary and secondary diagnostic test accuracy study designs for medical imaging professionals.

Keywords: Diagnostic test accuracy; Medical imaging; Meta-analysis; Sensitivity and specificity; Systematic reviews.