Clinical Report: Dermatological Toxicities Associated with Targeted Cancer Therapies

Overview

This narrative review highlights the prevalence and management of dermatological adverse events (AEs) associated with targeted cancer therapies, excluding immune checkpoint inhibitors. It emphasizes the importance of early identification and management of these cutaneous toxicities to optimize oncological treatment outcomes.

Background

Targeted therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment, yet they often lead to significant dermatological AEs that can hinder treatment adherence. Understanding these toxicities is crucial for healthcare providers, particularly dermatologists, to ensure effective management and improve patients' quality of life. This review aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding non-immune checkpoint inhibitor-related cutaneous toxicities.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

• Cutaneous adverse events can occur in up to 90% of patients receiving targeted therapies.
• Common skin toxicities include acneiform dermatitis, rash, xerosis, and pruritus, particularly with EGFR inhibitors.
• Acneiform eruptions are associated with a favorable treatment response.
• Early identification and management of skin toxicities can reduce the need for dose modifications and treatment discontinuations.
• Current guidelines primarily focus on immune checkpoint inhibitors, leaving a gap in management strategies for other targeted therapies.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should prioritize the early recognition and management of dermatological AEs in patients undergoing targeted therapies. Implementing proactive dermatological care can enhance treatment adherence and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

This review underscores the need for increased awareness and research on dermatological toxicities associated with targeted cancer therapies, aiming to optimize patient care and treatment efficacy.

References

1. The ASCO Post, 2012 -- Importance of Dermatologic Care for Patients with Cancer
2. The ASCO Post, 2014 -- Lung Cancer Expert Offers Recommendations for Treating Toxicities Associated With Targeted Therapies
3. Basic Research in Cardiology, 2021 -- Cardiac Impairment Associated with Cancer and Its Treatments: Emerging Strategies for Preventing Long-Term Cardiotoxic Effects
4. The ASCO Post — Both Patients and Clinicians Face Challenges in Recognizing and Reporting Immune-Related Adverse Events Related Articles
5. ESMO Best Practice for Management of Skin Toxicities from MKIs
6. Enhanced Dermatologic AE Prophylaxis Is Effective in EGFR-Mutated Advanced NSCLC | OncLive
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