Improving the positive predictive value of screening for developmental language disorder

J Speech Lang Hear Res. 2000 Aug;43(4):821-33. doi: 10.1044/jslhr.4304.821.

Abstract

In a previous study, we reported the results of an early language screening program in which 306 children were screened using a parent-report questionnaire sent through the mail (Klee et al., 1998). A sample of the children screened were given clinical evaluations within a month of screening (n = 64) and again 1 year later (n = 36). Although the screening program correctly identified 91% of 2-year-olds with language delay, it produced a large number of over-referrals. In the present study we examine a revised screening criterion designed to reduce the number of false positives. The revised criterion generated fewer positive screens overall than the original and resulted in improved specificity (96% vs. 87%) and positive predictive value (77% vs. 51%), while maintaining the high sensitivity (91%) and negative predictive value (98%) of the original criterion. We also propose a screening score based on the new criterion, designed to inform the process of deciding which children to bring in for further evaluation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Language Development Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Language Development Disorders / epidemiology
  • Language Tests / standards*
  • Male
  • Mass Screening*
  • Otitis Media / epidemiology
  • Parents
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Program Evaluation
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Surveys and Questionnaires