title: Erlotinib-induced florid acneiform rash complicated by extensive impetiginization.
abstract: Erlotinib (Tarceva) is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, a member of a new group of molecular targeted drugs that combine high efficacy against tumours with less, often self-limiting, toxicity, compared with traditional chemotherapeutics. It is used for treatment of solid-organ tumours, especially as second- or third-line therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer. Dose-related cutaneous side-effects and diarrhoea may be a significant obstacle to treatment compliance. We present two cases with long-lasting acneiform eruptions, complicated by significant impetiginization, resulting in hospitalization in one case. The other patient suffered from sleep-disturbing, itching crusts on the scalp. As the use of EGFR inhibitors is increasing, clinicians should be aware of their side-effects. Early and timely dermatological intervention may diminish adverse events for patients treated with these agents and improve quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. s.h.kardaun@derm.umcg.nl
authors.forename: S H
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Kardaun
authors.forename: K F
authors.initials: KF
authors.lastname: van Duinen
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000139:chemically induced; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D004643:Emollients / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000069347:Erlotinib Hydrochloride; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008911:Minocycline / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D047428:Protein Kinase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced; D011799:Quinazolines / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D004643:Emollients; D047428:Protein Kinase Inhibitors; D011799:Quinazolines; D000069347:Erlotinib Hydrochloride; D008911:Minocycline