Introduction: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are established therapies for advanced lung, colorectal, and head and neck cancers. They commonly cause acneiform eruptions that affect patient quality of life and may lead to discontinuation of therapy.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to assess strategies for the prevention and reactive management of acneiform rash associated with EGFR inhibitor therapy for advanced lung, colorectal, and head and neck cancers. A systematic Medline, Embase, and EBM Reviews database search was conducted on the 2nd of January 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement was followed and the studies were critically appraised. Studies were selected if they focused on preventing or treating acneiform eruptions in adults being treated for advanced lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and head and neck cancers with EGFR inhibitors.
Results: Oral antibiotics had the greatest efficacy in preventing grade 2 or higher acneiform eruptions with a relative risk reduction of 40% (RR = .6, 95% CI .46-.79, p < .01). Other treatment modalities did not have statistically significant results. Topical antibiotics had a total relative risk reduction of 19% (RR = .81, 95% CI .45-1.48, p = .5). Vitamin K1 cream did not reduce the relative risk (RR = 1.08, 95% CI .45-1.48, p = .50). Sunscreen had a total relative risk reduction of 25% (RR = .75, 95% CI .49-1.14, p = .18).
Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis reinforce the fact that oral tetracycline antibiotics are the most efficacious prophylactic option for acneiform eruptions in EGFR inhibitors. They should be offered to suitable patients commencing treatment and used with a general skin-care routine involving emollients and avoidance of irritants.
Keywords: EGFR inhibitor; acne; acneiform eruption; meta-analysis; prophylaxis; systematic review.
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