When I use a word . . . Medical definitions: Goldfinger events

Abstract

There are three types of anecdotal reports of adverse events that are suspected adverse drug reactions and can give rise to pharmacovigilance signals. Firstly, between-the-eyes anecdotes, a single one of which provides strong evidence of a causative association; secondly, data mining anecdotes, each of which on its own is of little evidential value but which taken together can provide a signal. Lastly, anecdotes about designated medical events, three or more of which collectively provide strong evidence. I prefer to call the last of this category “Goldfinger events,” quoting the eponymous villain in Ian Fleming’s 1959 novel: “Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. The third time it’s enemy action.”