Some have suggested untested strategies like giving a later-dated just-in-case prescription, not treating smaller abscesses, and treating for fewer days. We’re conducting subgroup analyses to test abscess mythology, like antibiotics are only effective for those with bigger lesions, more erythema, fever, or comorbidities. One double-strength BID could work just as well. There is another RCT that used this dose (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT00730028), and we’ll see if that study validates our findings.
Explore This Issue
ACEP Now: Vol 35 – No 10 – October 2016In the meantime, you can decide if it’s time to discard abscess treatment dogma and if, with this new evidence, matters have now come to a head!
Dr. Talan is professor of medicine in residence (emeritus) at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and chairman emeritus of the department of emergency medicine and faculty in the division of infectious diseases at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Reference
- Talan DA, Mower WR, Krishnadasan A, et al. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole versus placebo for uncomplicated skin abscess. N Engl J Med. 2016;374(9):823-832.
Pages: 1 2 3 | Single Page
No Responses to “Antibiotic Therapy for Abscesses Medical Dogma Challenged by Evidence-Based Research, Outcomes”