Comparison of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole versus placebo for uncomplicated skin abscesses

Abstract

Clinical question In patients with uncomplicated abscesses receiving incision and drainage, does the addition of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole result in improved clinical resolution at 7 to 14 days after treatment when compared with placebo? Article chosen Talan DA, Mower WR, Krishnadasan A, et al. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole versus placebo for uncomplicated skin abscess. N Engl J Med 2016;374(9):823-32. Objective The primary objective of this study was to compare the clinical cure rates at 7 to 14 days after the end of the treatment period among patients receiving either trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or placebo. Secondary outcomes included composite cure; surgical drainage procedures; change in erythema size; presence of swelling, induration, or tenderness; invasive infections; skin infections at the same site and different sites; hospitalizations; similar infections in household contacts; days missed from normal activities; days missed from school or work; and days of analgesic use.