An Octal Algorithm for Pattern Coding and Computer-assisted Interpretative Reporting

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Abstract
A simple method of creating an octalbased number representing a pattern of disease, physiologic state, or condition in a multifaceted individual test (protein electrophoresis) or in a test grouping (thyroid profile) is explained. It is easily adapted to computer-assisted interpretative laboratory reporting on both large and small computer or calculator devices capable of matrix storage. The system is based on the primary octal numbers of 4, 2 and 1 representing increased (4), normal (2), and decreased (1) values of a test or test component. The numbers 6 (4 + 2) and 3 (2 + 1) represent variable expressions of normal to increased and normal to decreased, respectively. Following disease or condition coding, the permutations of the variables are taken into account and the list of permuted pattern codes placed in a column of a matrix. Individual columns represent a specific disease or condition potentially influencing a pattern of normal and abnormal test or test component values. The system is easily updated and/or corrected by simply altering English expression (disease or condition) represented by the column and/or individual pattern code so identified. Software is written to search the matrix following compilation of octal pattern codes of the patient data entry. The English statement represented by the column in which a match occurs is printed, resulting in a listing representing a differential diagnosis. Resultant reports can be approved, signed and used as a computer-assisted interpretative aid to the clinician.

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