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Table 1 Summary of methods and reporting used in the meta-analysis of diagnostic accuracy data

From: Evidence synthesis to inform model-based cost-effectiveness evaluations of diagnostic tests: a methodological review of health technology assessments

Assessment Item

No. of meta-analyses (/22)

Primary model used to pool accuracy data

 Bivariate or HSROC model

20

 Independent models for sensitivity and specificity

2

Pooled accuracy statistics reported

 Sensitivity and specificity

22

 Positive and negative likelihood ratio

11

 Positive and negative predictive value

1

 Diagnostic odds ratio

9

 Area under the ROC curve

1

Exploration of Heterogeneity

 Subgroup analysis

14

 Multivariable adjustment

3

 Heterogeneity quantified (e.g. using I2 measure)

11

Presentation of Results

 Forest plot

16

 Plot in ROC space/summary ROC curve

18

Investigation of Threshold Effects

 Evaluated a quantitative index test

7 (excluding 1 IPD analysis)

 Existence of threshold effect clearly identified

4

 Clear threshold recommendations presented

2