Effectiveness of Topical Aloe Vera Versus Betamethasone in the Prevention of Radiation-induced Dermatitis in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Treated With Definitive Chemoradiotherapy in Tele Cobalt Machine

Purpose: Interruptions in radiotherapy due to dermatitis increase recurrence risk. Despite multiple studies, no standard approach exists for managing radiation dermatitis. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Aloe Vera versus Betamethasone in preventing radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing definitive chemoradiotherapy. Methodology: A prospective randomized trial was conducted with 79 patients receiving chemoradiotherapy. Participants were assigned to either Aloe Vera Gel (n=39) or Betamethasone Cream (n=40). RID was assessed weekly using Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) criteria, focusing on onset, severity, and progression of dermatitis. Results: The Aloe Vera group experienced a delayed onset of dermatitis compared to the Betamethasone group (mean: 4 weeks vs. 3.68 weeks). By the end of treatment, 76.9% of Aloe Vera patients had Grade 1 dermatitis, with 23.1% progressing to Grade 2 or higher. In the Betamethasone group, 60% had Grade 1 dermatitis, while 40% developed Grade 2 or higher. While the difference was not statistically significant, Aloe Vera showed a trend toward lower severity and fewer cases of severe dermatitis. Conclusion: Aloe Vera Gel may offer an advantage over Betamethasone in delaying the onset and reducing the progression of radiation-induced dermatitis. While both treatments are effective, Aloe Vera appears to be a safer option with fewer severe skin reactions. Larger studies are recommended to confirm these findings and explore combination therapies for better management of RID.