Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 31, 2026

Cortical Neurogenesis: Transitioning from Advances in the Laboratory to Cell-Based Therapies
Published on: July 19, 2007
An Evidence-Based Laboratory Medicine Approach to Evaluate New Laboratory Tests
1Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University Hospital and Local Healthcare Unit of Modena, Italy.
Abstract:
The evidence-based recommendations for the evaluation of new tests to be used in practice are a key issue to improve diagnostic clinical pathway inducing effective care. Emerging precision or personalized medicine requires innovative and pioneering biomarker tests for molecularly targeted therapies, possibly fitted for the individual patient's condition. Beyond the traditional analytical specifications that should guarantee the proper clinical diagnostic performances in response to a specific clinical question, the outcomes of a new test should be clearly defined and evaluated. Analytical and diagnostic performances such as sensitivity, specificity, imprecision, positive and negative predictive values are traditionally established measures but the clinical impact and the healthcare outcomes, to which these accuracy measures are related, are complex to measure. The extent of the improvement of the patients' health due to a diagnostic test remains a "holy grail" notwithstanding it should be the ultimate goal.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Serum Laboratory Studies, Stool Test, Breath Test
The Evidence for Evolution
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Frustration and Conflict: Approach-Approach, Approach-Avoidance
One common type of conflict is the Approach–Approach Conflict. In this case, a person faces two desirable...

