Voriconazole-associated phototoxic dermatoses and skin cancer

Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2015;13(12):1537-46. doi: 10.1586/14787210.2015.1102053. Epub 2015 Oct 21.

Abstract

Voriconazole's antifungal spectrum, oral bioavailability, and proven efficacy in treatment of invasive mycoses have led to its widespread off-label use for antifungal prophylaxis. There is an increasing recognition that long-term voriconazole use is associated with accelerated sun-induced skin changes that include acute phototoxicity reactions, photoaging, actinic keratosis and esp. among immunocompromised patients, skin cancers. The mechanisms underlying these dermatologic adverse events are not clearly understood. Population-risks of long-term voriconazole use need to be prospectively investigated. This review aims to provide an in-depth assessment of published literature and highlight salient findings from retrospective studies and case series. A broad practical guideline for assessment and management of these patients is provided.

Keywords: Chronic granulomatous disease; hematopoietic cell transplantation; immunocompromised host; phototoxicity; skin phototypes; solid organ transplantation; squamous cell carcinoma; sun protection; ultraviolet radiation; voriconazole.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antifungal Agents / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Phototoxic / diagnosis*
  • Dermatitis, Phototoxic / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Skin Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Voriconazole / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Voriconazole