title: [A clinical trial of a new class IV corticosteroid for topical use. Fifty-two case-reports (author's transl)].
abstract: A study of the activity of a new corticosteroid for topical use, betamethasone in a propylene glycol vehicle, is reported. The trial was open and included 52 cases. These were mainly severe and chronic cases of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and intractable prurigos resulting from various causes. The overall results were quite satisfactory, with 80% of good or very good responses. Itching was the feature most frequently improved by this treatment. If atopic dermatitis and psoriasis reacted well the response was particularly satisfactory in lichen planus. Evidence indicating an important effect on adrenal gland function is pointed out. This effect was demonstrated either by decreased serum cortisol levels or by decreased urinary excretion of steroids. This point should be carefully monitored, especially when treating patients with extensive skin disease. Therapy should be discontinued very progressively.
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000293:Adolescent; D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000187:drug effects; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001623:Betamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: C011175:betamethasone-17,21-dipropionate; D001623:Betamethasone
vernacular_title: Etude clinique d'un nouveau dermo-corticoïde de classe IV. A propos de cinquante-deux observations.