Systematic reviews of diagnostic accuracy evaluate and synthesize the totality of evidence about the accuracy of a single diagnostic test, or the difference in accuracy of multiple tests. Reviews of diagnostic accuracy studies are usually more challenging to perform than those of intervention studies.
In this course, we will discuss and practice the methods relevant for each step of the review process: formulating review questions, searching for diagnostic accuracy studies, assessing the methodological quality of included studies (using the QUADAS-2 tool and the QUADAS-C extension), meta-analysis of paired accuracy statistics (bivariate meta-regression model of sensitivity and specificity), and interpreting review findings.
This two- or three-day online course consists of presentations and collaborative small group exercises. For participants interested in learning how to perform a meta-analysis, an optional 3rd day provides computer exercises using the statistical software package R.
