Computer-assisted evaluation of adverse events using a Bayesian approach.

The differential diagnosis of idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is complex because for each adverse event there are many possible drug and nondrug causes. Recently efforts have been made to computerize causality assessment methods. A new computerized, user-friendly diagnostic aid for Bayesian assessment of adverse drug events (MacBARDI-Q&A) is described. This computer program performs a differential diagnosis on cutaneous reactions suspected of being drug-induced. The authors' results indicate that development of a valid, simple and user-friendly computerized procedure for evaluating adverse drug events is possible. The ongoing development and application of MacBARDI-Q&A and other similar programs should improve the evaluation of putative adverse drug reactions.