Shukla, P.N., Gairola, M., Mohanti, B.K., & Rath, G.K. (2006). Prophylactic beclomethasone spray to the skin during postoperative radiotherapy of carcinoma breast: A prospective randomized study. Indian Journal of Cancer, 43, 180–184.
To determine the difference in occurrence of wet desquamation on axillary skin with use of beclomethasone dipropionate spray
Study participants were randomized to two groups. One group received beclomethasone dipropionate spray on irradiated axilla (200 mcg) seven days a week from day one of radiation therapy. Steroid spray was stopped after development of wet desquamation. The other group was not allowed to apply anything in the irradiated area. Both groups were instructed against using soap, oil, or cream in treatment area; shaving in the irradiated area; and wearing anything other than loose cotton clothing. A clinical examination was done weekly while on treatment.
The study used a randomized controlled trial design.
Wet desquamation of axillary skin at the end of radiation developed in 13.33% of patients in the steroid group and 36.66% of patients in the control group (p = 0.0369). There was no significant difference in median dose of radiation causing wet desquamation (42 versus 43.54 Gy).
Topical steroid (beclomethasone dipropionate spray) for skin during radiation may reduce risk of wet desquamation of the skin.