Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor-related skin toxicity: mechanisms, treatment, and its potential role as a predictive marker

Clin Colorectal Cancer. 2008 Jan;7(1):33-43. doi: 10.3816/CCC.2008.n.005.

Abstract

The human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER1/EGFR/ErbB1) signaling is aberrant and overexpressed in many solid malignancies making it an appealing target for biologic agents. Among the classes of drugs targeting EGFR are monoclonal antibodies and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which have been shown effective and generally well tolerated in different clinical settings. The majority of patients treated with EGFR inhibitors (EGFRIs) develop specific dose-dependent skin toxicity. This side effect may lead to physical and psychosocial discomfort which can result in dose reduction or treatment interruption. The relationship between rash and clinical outcome has stimulated interest in this particular toxicity as a possible surrogate marker of efficacy in patients treated with targeted agents against EGFR. This review aims to summarize and update the current knowledge of the clinical presentation, predictive and prognostic value, and the management of EGFRI-related skin toxicity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Biomarkers*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm*
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • ErbB Receptors / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Skin Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Skin Diseases / pathology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biomarkers
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors