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Methods Inf Med 1998; 37(01): 26-31
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1634493
Original Article
Schattauer GmbH

Analysis of Data Associated with Seemingly Temporal Clustering of a Rare Disease

R. Chen
1   Department of Applied Mathematics, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
,
U. Goldbourt
2   Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University and Nuefeld Cardiac Research Institute, Sheba Medical Center Tel Hashomer, Israel
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 February 2018 (online)

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Abstract:

Three statistical tests aimed at detecting temporal clustering within a given short series of diagnoses are presented. These tests are based on a standardized time interval between consecutive diagnoses. Two of the tests (the Cuscore and the Sets tests) are derived from sequential monitoring techniques which are sensitive to temporal clustering within the data set. The third test (R test) is not sequential and its sensitivity is focused on the average increase in the overall rate of the disease rather than on clustering within the series. Power curves are presented for conditions related to the intensity level of the subtle epidemic, the cluster size and the number of diagnoses. None of the techniques showed highest efficiency over all the specified conditions. The R test is the most efficient when the relative risk is 2 or less, and the Cuscore test is the most efficient method when the relative risk is ≥2.5.

Keywords

Cuscore - Sets Technique - Subtle Epidemic
 

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