Dermatological Adverse Events with Taxane Chemotherapy
September 2016
in “
European Journal of Dermatology
”
taxane chemotherapy docetaxel paclitaxel dermatological adverse events skin toxicities hair toxicities nail toxicities hypersensitivity reactions extravasation reactions nab-paclitaxel fixed erythrodysaesthesia pigmentary changes oedema cutaneous sclerosis chemotherapy-induced alopecia chemotherapy-induced persistent alopecia scalp cooling topical minoxidil oral mucositis Taxotere Abraxane CIA CIPAL Rogaine
TLDR Taxane chemotherapy can cause skin, hair, and nail side effects, which are often under-reported and can affect patient quality of life.
The 2016 document reviews dermatological adverse events (dAEs) associated with taxane chemotherapy, particularly docetaxel and paclitaxel. It reports a wide range of incidence rates for dAEs (6 to 81%) and notes that these events are often under-reported. The dAEs include skin, hair, and nail toxicities, which can be mild to moderate but may lead to treatment modifications. The review covers management of hypersensitivity and extravasation reactions, the clinical experience with solvent-free nab-paclitaxel, and the importance of managing dAEs to maintain patient quality of life. Specific adverse events discussed include fixed erythrodysaesthesia, pigmentary changes, oedema/cutaneous sclerosis, and hair and nail changes. Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) and chemotherapy-induced persistent alopecia (CIPAL) are highlighted, with management strategies such as scalp cooling and topical minoxidil mentioned. Nail changes, oral mucositis, and other miscellaneous effects are also reviewed, with an emphasis on the need for awareness and management of these side effects in cancer treatment.
