Cutaneous side effects of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors: clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and management

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2007 Feb;56(2):317-26. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2006.09.005. Epub 2006 Dec 1.

Abstract

The growing investigation and use of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in anticancer therapy has been motivated by their specificity for EGFR, which improves their ability to target cancer cells and enhances their safety profile compared with many other conventional chemotherapeutic agents. However, their growing use has been accompanied by an increasing incidence of cutaneous toxicities, which can cause serious discomfort and be disabling. This review illustrates the common cutaneous side effects seen in patients receiving EGFR inhibitors and discusses various options for management. With effective management of these side effects, dermatologists can play an integral role in facilitating compliance with anti-EGFR therapy and aid with effective oncologic management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acneiform Eruptions
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cetuximab
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Humans
  • Paronychia / chemically induced
  • Paronychia / pathology
  • Paronychia / therapy
  • Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin Diseases / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Protein-Tyrosine Kinases
  • Cetuximab