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Toxicity of
Targeted Therapy:
Focus On Rash and
Other Dermatologic
Side Effects
Patricia O’Keeffe, APN, FNP, OCN
Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine
Melissa Parrilli
SERIES Clinic, Department of Dermatology
Mario E. Lacouture, MD
SERIES Clinic, Department of Dermatology
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Chicago, Illinois
Treatment recommendations for rash vary, depending on its grade and characteristics. Topical steroids such as fluticasone propionate 0.5% have been used, but they should be applied sparingly and only for a short course of 2 to 4 weeks for acute exacerbation relief. Because patients may be on EGFR inhibitor therapy for months to years, topical steroids should not be considered as maintenance medications, due to their long-term side effects. Regenecare is a prescription topical gel, containing collagen, aloe, vitamin E, and lidocaine, which soothes inflamed rash and provides symptomatic relief from itching, burning, and tenderness. |
