Atypical skin reaction in a patient treated with gefitinib for advanced lung cancer: A case report and review of the literature

Ferrazzi,Anna; Russo,Irene; Pasello,Giulia; Alaibac,Mauro

doi:10.3892/etm.2015.2881

Atypical skin reaction in a patient treated with gefitinib for advanced lung cancer: A case report and review of the literature

Authors:
- Anna Ferrazzi
- Irene Russo
- Giulia Pasello
- Mauro Alaibac
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Affiliations: Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua I‑35121, Italy, Unit of Medical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV‑IRCCS, Padua I‑35128, Italy
Published online on: November 19, 2015 https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2015.2881
Pages: 197-200

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Abstract

Gefitinib is a selective epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor utilized for the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma. The most commonly reported adverse event during gefitinib therapy is skin rash, particularly a papulopustular acne‑like eruption. Cutaneous toxicities can affect treatment compliance and the quality of life of the patient. The present study reports a case of gefitinib‑induced atypical skin reaction in a 73‑year‑old woman with advanced non‑small cell lung cancer, who developed a squamous‑crusted eruption on her face after 4 weeks of oral treatment with gefitinib at a dose of 250 mg/day. The patient was treated with 100 mg minocyclin (2 tablets/day, orally) and with ryfamicin topically. A complete resolution of the lesions was observed 2 weeks later. The present case report explored the pathogenesis of this skin manifestation, focusing on the underlying immunological mechanisms. A review of the literature concerning skin reactions to gefitinib was also conducted.

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