TLDR The document provides advice on how to recognize and treat skin-related side effects of cancer drugs known as EGFR inhibitors.
Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs), used for treating epithelial malignancies, are associated with dermatologic side effects due to their mechanism of action affecting skin, nails, and hair. The review from 2017 provides guidance on identifying and managing these side effects, which include papulopustular eruptions, nail changes, xerosis and pruritus, hair changes, mucositis, and exacerbated radiation dermatitis. While EGFRIs are generally better tolerated than traditional chemotherapy, their unique side-effect profile necessitates specific attention to cutaneous complications.
192 citations,
January 2015 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Targeted cancer therapies often cause serious skin problems that need careful management.
32 citations,
January 2012 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Skin side effects from EGFR inhibitor cancer treatment can be managed effectively, often without stopping the medication.
30 citations,
August 2010 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Cetuximab can cause eyelash growth, which is rare but manageable.
138 citations,
February 2007 in “European journal of cancer” EGFR inhibitors often cause skin problems and other side effects, but these are usually reversible and can be managed to keep patients comfortable.
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September 1999 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Finasteride and minoxidil are effective for hair loss, but continued research is needed for better treatments.
3 citations,
October 1982 in “Postgraduate Medicine” Most types of hair loss can regrow naturally, but there are no effective cures for male pattern or age-related hair loss, and only limited options for females.
