Chemotherapy and the Skin: Understanding Dermatologic Side Effects

    February 2026 in “ Cureus ”
    Pooja Unnikrishnan, Kirankanth Vudayana, Sanjana Diddi, Usha Sri Akkineni, Vunnava Sri Koulini, Chakka Gayathri
    TLDR Recognizing and managing skin side effects from chemotherapy improves patient quality of life and treatment success.
    This study examined chemotherapy-induced cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADRs) in 30 patients, highlighting the importance of recognizing and managing these reactions to maintain treatment continuity and patient quality of life. The most common malignancies were breast and gastrointestinal cancers, with taxanes, platinum compounds, and antimetabolites frequently implicated. Predominant cADRs included hand-foot syndrome, maculopapular eruptions, and alopecia, mostly classified as mild to moderate. Supportive dermatologic care led to favorable outcomes, with only 20% of patients requiring temporary dose modifications and none needing permanent cessation of chemotherapy. Early dermatologic involvement and collaboration between oncology and dermatology are crucial for reducing morbidity and enhancing patient satisfaction.
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