Common Data Element (CDE) - A data element that is common to multiple data sets across different studies. CDEs are metadata; they describe the type of data being collected, not the data itself.
NIH Common Data Element (CDE) Resource Portal provides access to information about NIH-supported CDEs, as well as tools and resources to assist investigators developing protocols for data collection. NIH CDE Repository is platform for identifying related data elements in use across diverse areas, for harmonizing data elements, and for linking CDEs to other existing standards and terminologies.