Background Actually, systematic reviews and meta-analyses are the cornerstone of evidence-based practice and the number of these evidence-based articles on diagnostic studies is increasing. Objective The aim of this article is to provide a practical guideline for the researchers who intend to perform a systematic review or meta-analysis of diagnostic studies. Methods A guideline was prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of diagnostic test accuracy. Results Several steps needed for systematic reviews or meta-analyses of diagnostic studies are briefly discussed (i.e. formulating the question of systematic reviews, search strategy, inclusion and exclusion criteria, quality assessment of the included studies, data extraction, pooling diagnostic indices across studies, reporting heterogeneity and discussion of main findings). Conclusion To publish a high-quality systematic review or meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy, certain methodology should be followed. Only methodologically sound systematic reviews or meta-analyses can change or support the clinical use of a diagnostic test.
