Insights into the pathophysiology and management of dermatologic toxicities to EGFR-targeted therapies in colorectal cancer.
Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs) play an important role in the development of the skin and up-regulation of these receptors is associated with many cancer-related processes, such as inhibition of apoptosis and uncontrolled cell proliferation. Accordingly, treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer with EGFR inhibitors may lead to adverse cutaneous effects that can decrease the patient's quality of life and could possibly lead to reduced, interrupted, or discontinued therapy. Effective management of these adverse effects may lessen the chance of suboptimal therapy and requires an understanding of the underlying pathophysiology, as well as knowledge of useful strategies for alleviating these effects.
Cancer Skin Care Program and SERIES Clinic, Department of Dermatology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Ill 60611-2941, USA. lacouture@northwestern.edu
Mario E
ME
Lacouture
D000465:Algorithms; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D005076:Exanthema / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009260:Nail Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D066246:ErbB Receptors