Research Terminology

Question 1

Highest/strongest level evidence

Answer 1

Systematic Review & Meta-analysis

Question 2

A type of scientific literature review that utilizes very strict, well defined methods of locating, appraising, and synthesizing all of the research that is available on a given topic.

Answer 2

Systemic review

Question 3

A type of systemic review that incorporates additional statistical methods to combine the data from the studies included in the review

Answer 3

Meta-analysis

Question 4

A type of research design wherein a sample of patients is randomly divided into two groups: one receives the genuine treatment, and the other receives a placebo

Answer 4

Randomized controlled trial

Question 5

An observational study that involves two groups of subjects being followed forward in time. One is exposed to known or suspected cause of a disease while the other is not exposed. The outcome of the groups are compared at the study’s conclusion in an attempt to identify causal factors

Answer 5

Cohort study

Question 6

A retrospective observational study that compares exposure in two groups of subjects. Subjects in one group have the disease (cases). Subjects in the other group is free of the disease (controls).

Answer 6

Case controlled study

Question 7

A single group of patients is treated and outcome is assessed. No comparison (control) group is involved

Answer 7

Case series

Question 8

An observational study that discusses the clinical management of one or a few patients. AKA case study.

Answer 8

Case report

Question 9

Lowest/weakest level evidence

Answer 9

Animal research & laboratory studies