[Acneiform eruption secondary to cetuximab].
C225 (cetuximab) is a monoclonal antibody that targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R). It is used for the treatment of solid malignant tumors in advanced stages. It works against tumors by inhibiting cell proliferation, angiogenesis and the formation of metastases, as well as by promoting cell apoptosis. We present the case of a 64-year-old male patient affected with a colon neoplasm with hepatic metastases, for which treatment with cetuximab was indicated. He came to our department because of a skin eruption with papules and pustules located on the face, neck, presternal area and upper back, but with no cysts or comedones. The biopsy was compatible with an acneiform eruption. The patient was treated with minocycline, 100 mg/day for 2 weeks, with the clinical symptoms responding favorably. When he was given further doses of cetuximab, he once again presented with new eruptions, but of lesser intensity. Because of the high frequency with which this adverse effect appears, it is recommended that cetuximab be included on the list of drugs causing acneiform eruptions.
Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital Universitario Sagrat Cor, Paris 83-87, 5o. piso, 08029 Barcelona, Spain. ireuaumu@retemail.es
Enrique
E
Herrera-Acosta
Gemma
G
Martín-Ezquerra
Maribel
M
Iglesias
Pablo
P
Umbert
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000068818:Cetuximab; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D000068818:Cetuximab