Intermediate
Technical
IVT
screen positive rate
The percentage of newborn screening tests that exceed established cutoff values requiring follow-up.
Full Definition
Screen positive rate represents the proportion of newborn screening specimens that produce results above predetermined cutoff thresholds, triggering the need for additional testing or clinical follow-up. This metric is carefully monitored as it affects program efficiency and family anxiety levels. An optimal screen positive rate balances sensitivity for detecting affected infants against the burden of false positive results. Rates are typically maintained between 0.1% to 0.5% for most conditions through periodic cutoff adjustments.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate the compound adjective: 'screen-positive rate'.
In Context
- "The laboratory adjusted cutoff values to maintain an appropriate screen positive rate." — Quality management report
- "Monthly monitoring revealed the screen positive rate had increased beyond acceptable limits." — Program surveillance data
Also known as
positive screen rate
referral rate
Contrasted with
screen negative rate
Don't confuse with
false positive rate
detection rate