Characterization and Management of Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitor-Related Adverse Events in Patients With Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma

August 2016 in “ The oncologist ”

Mario E. Lacouture, Brigitte Dréno, Paolo A. Ascierto, Reinhard Dummer, Nicole Basset-Séguin, Kate Fife, Scott Ernst, Lisa Licitra, Rogerio I. Neves, Ketty Peris, Susana Puig, Jonas Sokolof, Aleksandar Sekulić, Axel Hauschild, Rainer Kunstfeld

Hedgehog pathway inhibitors HPIs basal cell carcinoma BCC alopecia

Studysummary This paper reviews adverse events related to hedgehog pathway inhibitors in advanced basal cell carcinoma patients, reporting no new clinical results but aiming to inform healthcare professionals for improved patient care.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document reviewed the adverse events associated with Hedgehog pathway inhibitors (HPIs) in patients with advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC), focusing on common side effects like muscle spasms, dysgeusia, alopecia, weight loss, and fatigue. These side effects, often mild to moderate but persistent, necessitated effective management strategies such as dose adjustments, supportive care, and patient education to improve adherence and quality of life. The study emphasized the importance of managing these adverse events to ensure patients could continue benefiting from HPI therapy, with specific strategies for each type of side effect, including dietary adjustments, nutritional support, and physical and psychosocial interventions.

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Research cited in this study

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