Discussion
This trial suggests that it is highly probable that a substantial
reduction in the number of repeat episodes of cellulitis of the
leg could be achieved by giving patients prophylactic antibiotics
for a period of 6 months after treatment of the acute episode.
The result was of borderline statistical significance (meaning
that there is an 8% chance that the observed benefits could have
occurred by chance), but has to be interpreted in the context of
a virtual absence of similar data elsewhere, the large potential
magnitude of effect, and the consistency of possible benefit for
a range of outcomes.25 The study indicates that a possible treatment
effect deserves further investigation, especially as the
intervention is low cost, safe and well tolerated by patients.