Sequential Bayesian Updating

In this chapter, we describe the process of Bayesian updating by means of performing sequential testing, in order to improve the performance of an individual screening test. We provide a formal derivation for the equation for Bayesian updating and introduce the tablecloth function, a simple three-dimensional graphic representation of the number of iterations required to obtain a specific predictive value as a function of prevalence, further providing reference tables in this regard. We likewise report on the limitations sequential testing, which relate primarily to the independence of sequential iterations.