Observer Variation

Overview

The failure by the observer to measure or identify a phenomenon accurately, which results in an error. Sources for this may be due to the observer's missing an abnormality, or to faulty technique resulting in incorrect test measurement, or to misinterpretation of the data. Two varieties are inter-observer variation (the amount observers vary from one another when reporting on the same material) and intra-observer variation (the amount one observer varies between observations when reporting more than once on the same material).

This information is general and should not be treated as medical advice. Always speak directly with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about treatment, diagnosis, procedures, medicines or care.

Quick facts about Observer Variation

Topic type

Diagnostic Test

Category

Diagnostics

MeSH classification

E01.354.753|N02.421.450.600|N05.715.350.150.675|N06.850.490.500.250

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