Skin specialist visit may shorten hospital stays for cellulitis patients

NCT ID NCT01706913

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether having a dermatologist see patients within 24 hours of being admitted to the hospital for cellulitis (a skin infection) could improve their care. Researchers compared patients who got a dermatology consult to those who only saw their regular hospital doctor. They measured length of stay, readmission rates, and antibiotic use. The goal was to see if early specialist input leads to better outcomes and less unnecessary treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
dermatology consultation
What this could lead to
If successful, this could show that early specialist input improves hospital care for cellulitis, potentially reducing costs and unnecessary antibiotics.
What could go wrong
This is a completed study with moderate enrollment (246 people). Results may not apply to all hospitals or patient groups, and the intervention is a consultation, not a new drug or treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.