Adverse Reaction to Cetuximab, an Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor

April 2016 in “ PubMed ”

Daška Štulhofer Buzina, Ivana Martinac, Danijela Ledić Drvar, Romana Čeović, Ivan Bilić, Branka Marinović

cetuximab epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor EGFRI papulopustular rash xerosis eczema trichomegaly paronychia oral antibiotics topical steroids moisturizing emollients EGFR inhibitor rash dry skin eyelash overgrowth nail infection antibiotics steroids moisturizers

Studysummary This article discusses common skin side effects of EGFR inhibitors like cetuximab, noting their management remains based on clinical experience without strict therapy protocols, but provides no new clinical findings.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

Cetuximab, an epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor (EGFRI), was used to treat a 43-year-old female with metastatic colorectal carcinoma. While the patient initially responded well to the treatment, she developed several cutaneous side effects, including a papulopustular rash, xerosis, eczema, trichomegaly, and paronychia. These side effects were managed with oral antibiotics, topical steroids, and moisturizing emollients without discontinuing the EGFRI therapy. However, due to disease progression and the development of lung metastases, cetuximab therapy was eventually discontinued, leading to the resolution of the skin manifestations. The study highlighted the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to manage EGFRI-associated skin toxicities effectively.

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Research cited in this study

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