Folliculitis Decalvans Associated with Erlotinib
April 2010
in “
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
”
Studysummary Erlotinib can cause hair loss and scalp issues, which improve after stopping the drug.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The article discussed a case of folliculitis decalvans, a rare form of scarring alopecia, associated with the use of erlotinib, a medication commonly used in cancer treatment. The patient developed pustules and hair loss on the scalp after starting erlotinib. The condition improved after discontinuing the drug and initiating treatment with antibiotics and topical steroids. This case highlighted the potential side effect of erlotinib on hair follicles, emphasizing the need for awareness among clinicians prescribing this medication.
