Three statistical tests aimed at detecting temporal clustering within a given short
series of diagnoses are presented. These tests are based on a standardized time interval
between consecutive diagnoses. Two of the tests (the Cuscore and the Sets tests) are
derived from sequential monitoring techniques which are sensitive to temporal clustering
within the data set. The third test (R test) is not sequential and its sensitivity
is focused on the average increase in the overall rate of the disease rather than
on clustering within the series. Power curves are presented for conditions related
to the intensity level of the subtle epidemic, the cluster size and the number of
diagnoses. None of the techniques showed highest efficiency over all the specified
conditions. The R test is the most efficient when the relative risk is 2 or less,
and the Cuscore test is the most efficient method when the relative risk is ≥2.5.
Keywords
Cuscore - Sets Technique - Subtle Epidemic
