When is a diagnostic test result positive? Decision tree models based on net utility and threshold

A. F. Krieg, T. W. Abendroth, M. B. Bongiovanni

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The question 'when is a diagnostic test result positive?' can be addressed by clinical decision analysis. We developed two simple decision tree models for selecting appropriate cutoff levels: a net utility model and a threshold model. These models have been incorporated in a software program for desktop computers. We believe it is important for investigators to provide raw data on test performance, for three reasons. First, these data can be used in simple decision tree models to identify 'appropriate' cuttoff levels. Second, they can be used to evaluate empiric cutoff levels or decision rules. Third, they can be used to evaluate optimal cutoff levels for detailed decision trees depicting specific clinical problems.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)787-791
Number of pages5
JournalArchives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Volume110
Issue number9
StatePublished - 1986

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Medical Laboratory Technology

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