The efficacy of short-term clobetasol lotion in the treatment of scalp psoriasis.

BACKGROUND: Scalp psoriasis can have a considerable impact on patients' quality of life and is considered difficult to treat. Treatment failure may, however, be due to poor adherence, as application of topical treatments to hair bearing areas is difficult and time consuming and also poor communication between physician and patient.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of short-term treatment of scalp psoriasis with topical clobetasol lotion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients with mild to severe scalp psoriasis were recruited for this study. Patients applied clobetasol 0.05% lotion twice daily for seven days. They were followed up with phone calls three days after starting the treatment. Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin erythema were assessed noninvasively at baseline and end of study.

RESULTS: One week after treatment, median PSI score decreased significantly (p = .002). There was also a significant decrease in median TEWL (p = .012) and increase in skin hydration one week after treatment (p = .010). Eighty three percent of patients were satisfied with treatment result and felt convenient with applying clobetasol lotion.

LIMITATIONS: Lack of a long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS: Psoriasis is a long-term disease, and improving adherence in the short time could improve patient's adherence to treatment in long time.