Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) is a form of doxorubicin enclosed in pegylated liposomes. In contrast to conventional doxorubicin, PLD is characterized by a lower incidence of cardiotoxicity and myelosuppression. However, it induces specific mucocutaneous side effects, particularly palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (PPE). Other dermal manifestations, such as intertrigo-like dermatitis, diffuse follicular rash, melanotic macules, maculopapular rash or recall phenomenon are less common. Mechanisms that lead to skin toxicity remain unclear, however, certain reports indicate that drug excretion in sweat, host-vs.-altered-host reactions and local mechanical microtrauma play an important role in the development of cutaneous disorders. Effective preventive and curative management has not yet been established. The current study reports a case of a 55-year-old patient with advanced ovarian cancer who developed an uncommon diffuse maculopapular rash and severe PPE during treatment with PLD. Complete regression of the skin disorder was observed after 4 weeks. At present, palliative chemotherapy provides the opportunity to prolong life and alleviate disease symptoms, nonetheless it produces a number of adverse effects. Dermal complications may affect patient quality of life and cause therapy interruption. In the light of widespread use of PLD, skin toxicity associated with this drug creates a major problem.
Keywords: maculopapular rash; ovarian cancer; pegylated liposomal doxorubicin; skin toxicity.