How to correct the odds ratio for lack of sensitivity and specificity.

This commentary explains and exemplifies a method to estimate the Odds Ratio-OR with a correction for possible errors in diagnosis. This procedure allows reassessing hypotheses of association between health outcomes and exposures when the database entails lack of accuracy, and the estimates of sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic tool are available. Misclassification is not uncommon in dental public health research. Classification errors should not be ignored; they should instead be subject of measurement and adjustment. However, the lack of diagnostic validity is an elusive error, which cannot be entirely controlled. The method described here is solely an attempt to explore further the assessment of factors impacting on health outcomes.