Challenges in changing reference intervals in disease diagnosis

Bulgarian Medical Journal, 2023, 17(1), 35-38.

K. Mitov, A. Savova, K. Tachkov

Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University – Sofia

Abstract. The purpose of the present work is to present the results of a literature review and critical analysis of problematic areas in diagnostic methods and standards. A literature review of changes in diagnostic intervals in diabetes and hypertension and other diseases was conducted. 10 studies examining changes in clinical intervals for the period 2000-2018 were selected through a systematic review. The data were also compared with historical changes in the recommendations of therapeutic guidelines. Historical changes in guidelines lead to the acceptance of a larger number of people in a “pre-risk” state, where it is imperative to monitor whether an increasing trend in indicators is present. Recommendations change as evidence grows, but there is debate about the extent to which they are adhered to. The introduction of an automated system would reduce the risk of such events. The accumulation of historical databases of indicators for a single individual would increase the reliability and support the correct medical decision making by the physician.

Key words: reference intervals, diagnostics, problem areas

Address for correspondence: K. Tachkov, e-mail: ktashkov@pharmfac.mu-sofia.bg