Erlotinib-induced skin rash in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer: pathogenesis, clinical significance, and management.

Abstract

The human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling is overexpressed in many solid malignancies, making it an appealing target for biologic agents. A number of agents that target this receptor are in use or in development. A specific adverse effect common to this class of agents is an acneiform-like skin rash that has been related to EGFR inhibition in the skin. Little is known about the etiology of this rash, and there are no clear evidence-based management recommendations. Findings suggest that there is a relationship between the development of rash and response and/or survival, making rash a potential surrogate marker of activity. This review summarizes and updates the current knowledge of the clinical presentation, etiology, and predictive and prognostic value of erlotinib-induced skin rash and establishes a treatment strategy to help treat dermatologic adverse events and allow patients to continue therapy without dose interruption or drug discontinuation.

• Authors: Sotirios Tsimboukis, Irene Merikas, Eleni M Karapanagiotou, Muhammad Wasif Saif, Kostas N Syrigos
• Journal: Clinical lung cancer (Clin Lung Cancer) Vol. 10 Issue 2 Pg. 106-11 (Mar 2009) ISSN: 1525-7304 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19362953 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Protein Kinase Inhibitors
• Quinazolines
• Erlotinib Hydrochloride
• ErbB Receptors

Topics

• Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung (complications, drug therapy)
• ErbB Receptors (antagonists & inhibitors)
• Erlotinib Hydrochloride
• Exanthema (chemically induced, drug therapy, pathology)
• Humans
• Lung Neoplasms (complications, drug therapy)
• Protein Kinase Inhibitors (adverse effects)
• Quinazolines (adverse effects)