Effect of Topical Betamethasone Valerate on Inflammation After Cryotherapy in Treatment of Skin Warts

Background and purpose: Cryotherapy, which causes inflammation, is one of the methods used in treatment of warts. Including a topical steroid in a regular wound care regimen slows the course of damage and promotes re-epithelialization. The purpose of this study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of topical betamethasone valerate on inflammation after cryotherapy in patients with warts compared to placebo. Materials and methods: Twenty people were included in a double blind clinical trial. Cryotherapy was used on both sides of the body to treat the lesions. Following cryotherapy, topical betamethasone was applied to the lesions on one side, while placebo ointment was applied to the lesions on the opposite side. The patient's symptoms were documented during four visits. To assess pain intensity, the visual pain scale (VAS) was used. Finally, treatment evaluation was scored during these four sessions. SPSS V16 was used to analyze the data. Results: None of the samples at the end of the study had hypertrophic or atrophic scars and depigmentation, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation lesions. Mean erythema, pain, frequency of blistering and frequency of edema during 14 days of follow-up were not significantly different between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: During the 14-day follow-up period after therapy, topical betamethasone had no effect on the incidence of blisters and edema, as well as the average score of pain and erythema. As a result, this treatment modality cannot be used to relieve inflammation following cryotherapy in patients with warts. (Clinical Trials Registry Number: IRCT20170818035762N3)