[Multinational studies: an alternative to improve psychiatric research in Latin America]

Multinational studies represent a viable alternate to improve the as yet insufficient and fragmentary research efforts in Latin America. The types of multinational investigations (coordinated, cooperative and collaborative studies) according to their level of interdependence are described. Their justification, both on scientific and strategic grounds is discussed as well. An adequate planning and rigorous monitoring are essential to achieve the objectives of such studies. The issue of intercenter reliability is particularly stressed. Statistical analysis, publications policies and ethical aspects are reviewed, and suggestions are given to avoid conflicts in these areas. If proper administrative arrangements are made and investigators are willing to develop and adhere to high-quality protocols, psychiatric research in Latin America might become more internationally competitive in the not-too-distant future.