Chemotherapy and cutaneous toxicities: implications for oncology nurses.
OBJECTIVE
To review common cutaneous effects and dermatologic or cutaneous toxicities related to the administration of chemotherapy. These range from mostly cosmetic, such as hyperpigmentation or alopecia, to dose-limiting toxicities such as palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia or hand-foot syndrome.


METHODS
Current research, published literature, and internet resources.


CONCLUSIONS
Assessment and grading of associated toxicities of therapy is an integral part of caring for this patient population. Early intervention may reduce toxicities associated with therapies for this patient population


CONCLUSIONS
As more patients receive chemotherapy, dermatologic effects are becoming more common. Oncology nurses must be skilled in managing these side effects.
Viale
Pamela Hallquist
PH
Camino Medical Group, Sunnyvale, CA, USA. p.viale@comcast.net
D000505:Alopecia / Q000139:chemically induced; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005119:Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials / Q000209:etiology; D006086:Graft vs Host Disease / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000139:chemically induced; D009260:Nail Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D017592:Skin Care / Q000451:nursing; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents