Bayesian methods and decision making in glaucoma

Abstract

This article reviews the Bayesian statistical approach to diagnostic test analysis and application in the management of glaucoma patients. The central idea of the Bayesian method is the use of study data to update the state of knowledge about a quantity of interest. In diagnostic test analysis, the Bayesian approach explicitly elicits a clear interpretation of chances of a particular eye disease given a positive test result. The Bayesian method also provides a reasonable rationale for deciding whether to perform a laser iridotomy in a patient with occludable angles. We present several literature examples of Bayesian methods in practice, especially as it relates to glaucoma evaluation and progression.

Keywords

• bayesian statistic
• glaucoma
• angle closure glaucoma