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.