Use and Usefulness of Diagnostic Tests. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test and the So Called Chlorpropamide Alcohol Flush Test

Two years ago a work group of the GMDS was founded which is devoted to methods of prognosis estimation and decision making (“Methoden der Prognose und Entscheidungsfindung”). This group is trying to compile a catalogue on the requirements for checking diagnostic tests. Together with other clinicians we are participating in this group. Our main goal is that the catalogue should not become so complicated and sophisticated that clinicians will never read or use it. The problems we are faced with in looking at various diagnostic tests are much more basic and much simpler than the problems discussed in the work group.