Dermatologic Reactions to Targeted Therapy

February 2017 in “ Nursing Clinics of North America ”

Margaret Barton‐Burke, Kathryn Ciccolini, Maria Mekas, Sean Burke

epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors EGFRIs papulopustular rash hair changes pruritus acneiform rashes nonscarring alopecia patchy hair loss diffuse hair loss moisturizers sunscreen oral antibiotics EGFR inhibitors rash itching acne-like rashes hair loss skin care products

TLDR Targeted cancer therapies can cause skin side effects, which should be treated early to help patients' quality of life and treatment adherence.

The document from March 1, 2017, discusses the dermatologic side effects of targeted cancer therapies, especially those related to epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs). These side effects include a range of skin conditions such as papulopustular rash, hair changes, and pruritus, with acneiform rashes occurring in up to 90% of patients on EGFRIs. The document notes that nonscarring alopecia can develop after 2 to 3 months of therapy, leading to patchy and then diffuse hair loss, which usually resolves post-therapy. It underscores the importance of early recognition and treatment of these side effects to improve patients' quality of life and treatment adherence. The article also discusses the role of nurses in managing these conditions and the emerging specialty of oncodermatology. Recommendations for prophylactic treatments are based on level II and IV evidence, including the use of moisturizers, sunscreen, and oral antibiotics. The document calls for more research to strengthen clinical practice guidelines and to further develop oncodermatology nursing.

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