Abstract
Sensitivity and specificity, as defined previously, depend on the cut-off point used to define positive and negative test results. To determine the best cut-off point shift that optimizes sensitivity and specificity, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is often used. This is a plot of the sensitivity of a test versus its false-positive rate for all possible cut-off points. This chapter outlines its advantages, its use as a means of defining the accuracy of a test, its construction as well as methods for identification of the optimal cut-off point on the ROC curve. Meta-analysis of diagnostic studies is briefly discussed.
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Doi, S.A.R. (2013). Using and Interpreting Diagnostic Tests with Quantitative Results. In: Doi, S., Williams, G. (eds) Methods of Clinical Epidemiology. Springer Series on Epidemiology and Public Health. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-37131-8_6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-37131-8_6
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