Acneiform eruptions induced by epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors: treatment with oral isotretinoin

Cutis. 2012 Aug;90(2):77-80.

Abstract

The most common cutaneous side effects to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are follicular or acneiform eruptions, nail disorders, xerosis, and desquamation. Although topical and oral antibiotics with or without topical corticosteroids usually are safe and effective treatment options for acneiform eruptions due to EGFR inhibitors, they are not always successful in refractory cases. We report 3 cases of severe acneiform eruptions induced by EGFR inhibitors that were successfully treated with oral isotretinoin. Complete response was observed in all 3 patients. We recommend oral isotretinoin for the management of acneiform reactions to EGFR inhibitors when the lesions persist or worsen despite antibiotic treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acneiform Eruptions / chemically induced
  • Acneiform Eruptions / drug therapy*
  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Cetuximab
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Eruptions / drug therapy*
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Erlotinib Hydrochloride
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isotretinoin / administration & dosage
  • Isotretinoin / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Quinazolines / adverse effects

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Quinazolines
  • Erlotinib Hydrochloride
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Isotretinoin
  • Cetuximab