OvidGratefulMedPubMedThe TRIP DatabaseGlobal Emergency Medicine Archives


How can you determine or estimate the pre-test probability of disease?

For a screening or population based testing scenario, the population prevalence is the pre-test probability. In the clinical setting, however, it may be difficult to precisely determine pre-test probability.  Sometimes you own best estimate, based on prior experience or on known disease prevalence in your setting,  will have to suffice. If available, a clinical prediction model may provide a more precise estimate of disease risk or probability.