Biologically plausible and evidence-based risk intervals in immunization safety research VACCINE Rowhani-Rahbar, A., Klein, N. P., Dekker, C. L., Edwards, K. M., Marchant, C. D., Vellozzi, C., Fireman, B., Sejvar, J. J., Halsey, N. A., Baxter, R. 2012; 31 (1): 271-277

Abstract

In immunization safety research, individuals are considered at risk for the development of certain adverse events following immunization (AEFI) within a specific period of time referred to as the risk interval. These intervals should ideally be determined based on biologic plausibility considering features of the AEFI, presumed or known pathologic mechanism, and the vaccine. Misspecification of the length and timing of these intervals may result in introducing bias in epidemiologic and clinical studies of immunization safety. To date, little work has been done to formally assess and determine biologically plausible and evidence-based risk intervals in immunization safety research. In this report, we present a systematic process to define biologically plausible and evidence-based risk interval estimates for two specific AEFIs, febrile seizures and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. In addition, we review methodologic issues related to the determination of risk intervals for consideration in future studies of immunization safety.

View details for DOI 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.07.024

View details for Web of Science ID 000313306400038

View details for PubMedID 22835735