Comparing the clinical response and patient satisfaction of foam versus cream calcipotriol-betamethasone dipropionate treatment of localized plaque psoriasis.

BACKGROUND

Calcipotriol-betamethasone dipropionate (Ca/BDP) is an effective topical treatment for localized plaque psoriasis. It is available in various formulations, including foam and cream; the differences in patient satisfaction and tolerability may impact treatment adherence and, consequently, clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This study seeks to compare the clinical response and patient satisfaction between foam and cream formulations of Ca/BDP in the treatment of localized plaque psoriasis via a retrospective, multicenter observational study conducted on 108 patients with localized plaque psoriasis. Patients completed a standardized questionnaire assessing itch control, tolerability, and pleasantness (scored 0-3). Clinical response was assessed through PASI-based evaluation.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in age (P=0.085), sex distribution (P=0.055), or clinical response (P=0.113) between the two groups. However, cream was associated with significantly greater itch control (P=0.008), tolerability (P=0.011), and pleasantness (P<0.001) compared to foam. While clinical efficacy was comparable between formulations, the cream version of Ca/BDP was associated with higher patient satisfaction and better itch control.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that patient preference and formulation tolerability should be considered when prescribing topical therapies, as they may influence treatment adherence and long-term outcomes.