BACKGROUND: Several reviews and attempts at meta-analysis have pointed out that comparisons between studies on work-related musculoskeletal disorders are problematic, since different studies use different case definitions. In a clinical setting, the case definition involves a detailed history, a physical examination, and laboratory testing. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: When determining which tests should be included in a clinical examination, it is necessary to take into consideration the characteristics of clinical tests in terms of likelihood ratio for confirming and ruling out disease in addition to the pre-test probability of disease. If the different musculoskeletal symptoms and signs do not completely comply with the criteria for a disease, we recommend the choice of an ICD label (International Classification of Diseases - WHO) that focuses on the symptoms rather than the pathology. We suggest that the process for a new feasible case definition system for the neck and upper extremities should start with the creation of a
Hagberg M., Violante F.S. (2007). Current issues in case definitions for common musculoskeletal disorders in workers for clinical practice and research. LA MEDICINA DEL LAVORO, 98(2), 89-93.
Current issues in case definitions for common musculoskeletal disorders in workers for clinical practice and research.
VIOLANTE, FRANCESCO SAVERIO
2007
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Several reviews and attempts at meta-analysis have pointed out that comparisons between studies on work-related musculoskeletal disorders are problematic, since different studies use different case definitions. In a clinical setting, the case definition involves a detailed history, a physical examination, and laboratory testing. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: When determining which tests should be included in a clinical examination, it is necessary to take into consideration the characteristics of clinical tests in terms of likelihood ratio for confirming and ruling out disease in addition to the pre-test probability of disease. If the different musculoskeletal symptoms and signs do not completely comply with the criteria for a disease, we recommend the choice of an ICD label (International Classification of Diseases - WHO) that focuses on the symptoms rather than the pathology. We suggest that the process for a new feasible case definition system for the neck and upper extremities should start with the creation of aI documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
