In an epidemiological study, the first case which comes to the attention of
the investigator
1) Reference case
2) Index case
3) Primary case
4) Secondary case
📝 Explanation:
In an epidemiological study, the index case refers to the first case that
comes to the attention of the investigator.
The primary case is the first case of a communicable disease introduced into the
population unit being studied, which may not always be the index case.
Secondary cases are those developing from contact with the primary case.
a) Primary case: refers to first case of a communicable disease introduced into
the population unit being studied.
b) Index case: refers to first case that comes to attention of the investigator.
Index case may not be the primary case always
c) Secondary cases are those developing from contact with primary case