Accurate use of published data and references is a cornerstone of the peer-
review process. Statements, inferences, and conclusions based upon these re
ferences should logically ensue from the data they contain. When journal ar
ticles and textbook chapters summarizing the safety and efficacy of particu
lar therapies or interventions use references inaccurately or with apparent
intent to mislead, the integrity of scientific reporting is fundamentally
compromised.
Ernst et al.'s publication on chiropractic include repeated misuse of refer
ences, misleading statements, highly selective use of certain published pap
ers, failure to refer to relevant literature, inaccurate reporting of the c
ontents of published work, and errors in citation. Meticulous analysis of s
ome influential negative reviews has been carried out to determine the obje
ctivity of the data reported. The misrepresentation that became evident des
erves full debate and raises serious questions about the integrity of the p
eer-review process and the nature of academic misconduct.