[Propensity score: Interests, use and limitations. A practical guide for clinicians].

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Biostatistics
• Clinical Research Methodology

Background:

• Propensity scores, developed in the 1980s, are increasingly utilized in epidemiological research since the 2000s.
• They aim to mitigate selection bias in observational studies, enhancing comparability between exposure groups.
• Despite their utility, propensity scores possess inherent limitations and require rigorous application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide clinicians with an overview of propensity score methodology.
• To describe the advantages, application techniques, and limitations of propensity scores.
• To offer a guide for interpreting studies that employ propensity scores.

Main Methods:

• This overview synthesizes existing literature on propensity score methods.
• It focuses on practical aspects relevant to clinical researchers and practitioners.
• A structured reading guide is included for critical appraisal of studies.

Main Results:

• Propensity scores offer a valuable tool for addressing confounding in observational data.
• Their application necessitates a strict methodological approach to prevent bias and ensure reproducibility.
• Advanced statistical techniques are emerging but increase complexity.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians should understand the benefits and drawbacks of propensity scores for study interpretation.
• Careful methodology is crucial for valid and reproducible results using propensity scores.
• The provided reading grid assists in evaluating the quality of propensity score-based research.