Table 3.
Matrix of case report evaluation
| Components | Points | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 2 | |
| Documentation | Insufficient data provided with incomplete references for documentation | Most information is available with some missing data, images and references | Information is complete and accurate with supplemented with enough images and tests with relevant references |
| Uniqueness | Well reported and documented in the literature | Reported before but not in the same field or journal or few cases | It was never reported before |
| Educational values | Case is incomplete with weak instructional content, and irrelevant outdated references | Case described missing, atypical or contradictory feature with incomplete discussion of the topic and less ideal references | Complete description with appropriate and comprehensive discussion on selected topic which provides an opportunity to learn |
| Objectivity | Clear selective reporting, author’s bias toward the subject matter is evident with insufficient or inadequate presentation and reporting the evidence supporting the author’s idea only | Data are presented in appropriate format but uncertain completeness, with selective or subjective reporting. Contradicting theories are omitted with incomplete references of those opposing to the authors | All data is complete with appropriate format and no evidence of selective reporting. All alternative explanation is discussed, and atypical features are presented. No evidence of author advocacy or bias related to conflict of interest |
| Interpretation | Extrapolation of conclusions about mechanisms or interventions well beyond the data presented | Some conclusions went further than what is acceptable of the data presented | Conclusions and recommendation were conservative, compatible with the data provided |
The calculated total score: Score of 9-10: Excellent report and most likely will add new information to the medical literature, Score of 6-8: Can be published but reader should be caution of validity and clinical value, Score of 5 or Less: Report is considered inadequate and inappropriate for publication