Single patient trials and lack of data

The editor received a paper describing two single patient trials. Both peer reviewers recommended publication, although each of them pointed out the absence of real data. It was an unusual case where parents with small children were involved in a series of challenges to ascertain whether the babies were allergic to cows’ milk. The authors explained the lack of data by saying that the study was conducted 20 years ago. But it emerged that the researcher was discussing single patient trials. Hence there was no record of quantitative data, but the authors thought it was a good example of a systemic approach. It had also been well received when presented to groups of healthcare professionals. The editor does not believe that the results had been fabricated, but the lack of data does not guarantee this.