Efficacy and Skin Toxicity Management with Cetuximab in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Outcomes from an Oncologic and Dermatologic Cooperation

The study investigated the efficacy and skin toxicity management of combining irinotecan and cetuximab in 34 patients with EGFR-expressing metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients received cetuximab and irinotecan, and 32 were evaluated for response rate and skin toxicity. Results showed a complete response in 1 patient (3%), partial response in 11 patients (34%), disease stabilization in 6 patients (19%), and progressive disease in 14 patients (44%). Skin toxicity included grade 1 eruptions in 10 patients (29%), grade 2 in 13 patients (38%), and grade 3 in 4 patients (12%). Allergic reactions occurred in 2 patients (6%). Most skin effects were mild to moderate and reversible within 4 weeks after treatment discontinuation. The study concluded that proper management of EGFR cutaneous side effects by an oncologic/dermatologic team improved patients' quality of life.