Browse the glossary:
cut-off point, cut point, threshold
For diagnostic or screening tests that have continuous results (measured on a scale), cut-off values are the dividing points on measuring scales where the test results are divided into different categories; typically positive (indicating someone has the condition of interest), or negative (indicating someone does not have the condition of interest).
For example, the cut off for someone having a fever (measured on the Celsius scale) is 37.0 (the average human body temperature), a cut off below which treatment is not recommended for adults is 38.9, and a cut off below which a fever usually is not dangerous is 39.4.
If you feel that this definition hasn't helped you to understand the term, click on our monkey to let us know.