The discussion section should focus on considering the results in light of the review objectives, as well as how the review findings will influence the course of diagnosis in the area of the review. Specifically, the effects of the review findings on the field of diagnostics related to the test(s) under review, as well as their influence on patients and other relevant issues, should be considered.
Conclusion
The discussion should also include a final overview of the results that address any issues arising from the review’s conduct, including any limitations as well as issues arising from the results of the review. Recommendations for practice and research should also be made.
Recommendations for practice
Recommendations for practice should be detailed, specific and based on documented results, not reviewer opinion. Where the results of the review do not support any specific recommendation for practice this should be noted.
Recommendations for research
Recommendations for research should be derived from the results of the review and based on identified gaps in the literature or methodological weakness. Generalized statements calling for further research should be avoided in favor of the identification of specific issues. Where the findings of a review suggest that no further research be performed (saturation may be apparent, or a test may have been identified as containing an unacceptable risk), this should be noted as a recommendation.