A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.
Abstract
It is asserted that the scalpel biopsy is still the 'gold standard'.
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Lingen MW, Kalmar JR et al. Oral Oncology 2008; 44: 997–998
This multi-author letter from authorities in the field of oral cancer is a part of a dialogue with a scientist from the OralCDx Laboratories. At the heart of the debate is whether or not OralCDx® BrushTest® of suspected dysplastic lesions is not merely 'an ''aid'' but a test that provides definitive diagnostic information about a lesion – a test like a scalpel biopsy.' It is argued that the results from a BrushTest® must be compared with the 'gold standard' scalpel biopsy in 'establishing the “proof of principle” for this diagnostic adjunct/test'. Points made by the other side, in earlier correspondence, contend that the accuracy of the scalpel biopsy is fraught with confounders. In a conciliatory tone, the authors of this letter conclude that all parties are 'pursuing the same goal of detecting precancer and cancer at earlier and potentially more treatable stages'.
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Response to the comments by Eisen on 'Critical evaluation of diagnostic aids for the detection of oral cancer'. Br Dent J 206, 319 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.224
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.224