Reporting recommendations for tumor marker prognostic studies (REMARK): explanation and elaboration

Area of Science:

• Biostatistics
• Biomedical Research Methodology
• Oncology

Background:

• The Reporting Recommendations for Tumor Marker Prognostic Studies (REMARK) checklist addresses deficiencies in reporting tumor marker studies.
• This paper expands the REMARK checklist to enhance its utility and effectiveness.
• It clarifies the intent and importance of each reporting item.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview and reference for good reporting practices in tumor marker and prognostic studies.
• To enhance the understanding and application of the REMARK checklist.
• To improve the transparency and quality of published medical research.

Main Methods:

• The study elaborates on each item of the REMARK checklist.
• It includes explanations, examples of good reporting, and empirical evidence.
• A tabular format, the 'REMARK profile,' is proposed for summarizing key study details.

Main Results:

• The expanded REMARK checklist offers a clearer understanding of reporting requirements.
• Examples and evidence support the importance of each checklist item.
• The 'REMARK profile' provides a structured way to present study information.

Conclusions:

• This work serves as a valuable educational resource for designing, conducting, and analyzing prognostic studies.
• It aims to improve the quality and transparency of tumor marker research reporting.
• The article is published in PLoS Medicine to maximize dissemination.