Use of Registries and Large Databases for Toxicology Research

Maryann Mazer-Amirshahi; Daniel A Laub; Mark B Mycyk

doi:10.1007/s13181-024-00997-z

Use of Registries and Large Databases for Toxicology Research

J Med Toxicol. 2024 Feb 16. doi: 10.1007/s13181-024-00997-z. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Maryann Mazer-Amirshahi^{1

2}, Daniel A Laub³, Mark B Mycyk⁴

Affiliations

¹ Department of Emergency Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving St NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA. maryannmazer@gmail.com.
² National Capital Poison Center, Washington, DC, USA. maryannmazer@gmail.com.
³ National Capital Poison Center, Washington, DC, USA.
⁴ Cook County Health, Chicago, IL, USA.

PMID: 38366308
DOI: 10.1007/s13181-024-00997-z

Abstract

The advancement of medical toxicology knowledge has traditionally relied on case reports and case series because of the ethical challenges involved in studying poisoned patients. The growing availability of several large databases and registries now allows researchers to describe and analyze patterns in poisoned patients who share a particular exposure, outcome, or condition. A large database or registry can be useful in generating hypotheses, supporting extramural funding applications, and planning more rigorous studies. Knowing how to access and interpret data in registries such as NPDS, NHAMCS, and HCUP is essential for all stakeholders engaged in medical toxicology research. This review describes the strengths and limitations of different toxicology-relevant registries and databases and how to leverage these powerful tools to advance the science in the field of medical toxicology.

Keywords: Database; Registries; Research; Toxicology.