A result indicating the potential presence of a substance or metabolite being screened for. This outcome suggests further investigation is warranted, as it deviates from the expected negative result. For instance, if an individual undergoes screening for prohibited substances and the initial assessment yields this type of finding, confirmatory testing is typically initiated to provide a definitive conclusion.
Understanding this outcome is paramount in various contexts, including employment, legal proceedings, and clinical settings. Historically, the evolution of testing methodologies has aimed to minimize false positives and negatives, emphasizing accuracy and reliability. A clear comprehension of this finding allows for appropriate follow-up actions, such as additional testing or medical review, ultimately contributing to informed decision-making.