Several factors can lead to false positives and false negatives, including: - Test Sensitivity and Specificity: Sensitivity refers to a test's ability to correctly identify those with the disease (true positives), while specificity refers to its ability to correctly identify those without the disease (true negatives). A test with high sensitivity but low specificity is more likely to produce false positives, and vice versa. - Prevalence of Disease: The prevalence of a disease in a population can affect the likelihood of false positives and negatives. In low-prevalence settings, the chance of false positives may increase. - Sample Quality: Poor sample collection or handling can degrade test accuracy. - Cross-Reactivity: Some tests may react with other substances or pathogens, leading to false results.
