Clinical relevance of filtration tests

Abstract

J.D. We have so far discussed some of the variables in filtration techniques reproduced in this diagram. We have tried to assess the relative importance and contribution of these different factors and how we can interpret the results produced by combinations of these factors. In this session we want to apply ourselves to the question: are the results, irrespective of the exact technique of filtration used, clinically relevant? I mean by that, are the results of any filtration test useful in the prediction, management, determining the prognosis of the disease or the development of new forms of therapy? What we have in the filtration test is a kind of black box into which we pour the blood and out of which comes a number. You can approach such a phenomenon in two ways; so far we have been approaching it from the basic science point of view — what is actually being measured inside that box? But we can also look at the number we get out of the box and see whether it is clinically relevant. I would suggest that these two paths should be followed simultaneously rather than consecutively. They are interrelated and if we can acurately define the clinical states which produce abnormal results new light may be thrown on what we are actually measuring, and vice versa.