To maximize sensitivity, which testing interpretation is preferred?

• A. Series
• B. Parallel
• C. Neither
• D. Both equally

Answer: (B)

Maximizing sensitivity means you want to catch as many true cases as possible. When results from two tests are interpreted in parallel, you label someone positive if either test is positive. This approach increases the chance of detecting disease because a person who is positive on at least one test will be identified as diseased, reducing missed cases (false negatives). The tradeoff is that more people without the disease may test positive on at least one test, lowering specificity. In contrast, serial interpretation requires both tests to be positive to call someone positive, which boosts specificity but reduces sensitivity. So, to maximize sensitivity, parallel interpretation is preferred.