A serosurvey for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies reports titers of 1:20, 1:40, 1:80, 1:160, and 1:320 in five individuals. Which measure of central tendency is most appropriate to summarize these values?
- A Arithmetic mean
- B Geometric mean ✓
- C Median
- D Mode
Correct answer: B. Geometric mean
Explanation
Antibody titers are measured on a logarithmic scale and follow a log-normal distribution. The geometric mean is the appropriate measure of central tendency for such data because it accounts for the multiplicative nature of serial dilutions. The arithmetic mean would be unduly influenced by the highest titer, while the median ignores the magnitude of differences between dilutions.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.