Carter has made a number of recommendations for the evaluation of molecular tests prior to using them for patient evaluation. The author is from Emory University in Atlanta.
The evaluation of a molecular test may involve 3 or more levels of evaluation. An initial screen of the evidence can help decide if an in depth evaluation is warranted. As with any screen this should be quick and simple.
Steps in the initial 3-step screen ("ABC"):
(1) access the vendor's website and reference materials
(2) browse the literature (PubMed, other online databases)
(3) check abstracts
Findings
Proceed Further
Red Flag
peer-reviewed studies
yes
none
reports in well-known journals
yes
none
first author works for the vendor
no
yes
test meets the needs of a clinician (will the tests results be helpful)
yes
no
where:
• I would modify "first author works for the vendor" to: one or more authors work for the vendor or have a significant financial interest in the test.
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