Prophylaxis of radiation dermatitis with a topical cortisone cream.

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Abstract
Cancer patients (19) receiving radiation therapy to the head, neck, chest wall or abdomen were evaluated in a double-blind study to determine the effectiveness of 0.2% hydrocortisone valerate vs. placebo in reducing acute radiation dermatitis. Patients applied hydrocortisone valerate to 1/2 of the irradiated area and the placebo to the other half beginning 2 wk after the initiation of radiotherapy and continuing until 3 wk after completion. Left and right sides were scored each week with respect to erythema, dry desquamation, moist desquamation, ulceration and the duration and intensity of symptoms such as soreness, burning and itching. No statistically significant difference was found between the 0.2% hydrocortisone valerate and the placebo in the acute skin response or the symptoms of radiation dermatitis. The patients were evaluated 3 mo. following radiotherapy for evidence of skin atrophy. There was no difference found between hydrocortisone valerate and the placebo with respect to the late effects of radiation therapy.

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