Optimising case definitions of upper limb disorder for aetiological research and prevention: a review.

ABSTRACT: Experts disagree about the optimal classification of upper limb disorders (ULDs). To explore whether differences in associations with occupational risk factors offer a basis for choosing between case definitions in aetiological research and surveillance, we analysed previously published research. Eligible reports (those with estimates of relative risk (RR) for >1 case definition relative to identical exposures were identified from systematic reviews of ULD and occupation and by hand-searching five peer-review journals published between January 1990 and June 2010. We abstracted details by anatomical site of the case and exposure definitions employed and paired estimates of RR, for alternative case definitions with identical occupational exposures. Pairs of case definitions were typically ne

SUBMITTER: Palmer KT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3427012 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature