Introduction: Erlotinib is an inhibitor of human epidermal growth factor approved for treating non-small cell lung cancer. The aim of this prospective observational study was to determine the prevalence of adverse cutaneous reactions caused by erlotinib and assess the management of such effects.
Methods: Eleven patients with lung cancer and 1 with ovarian cancer received erlotinib at a dose of 150 mg/d. The prevalence, severity, and time course of the adverse cutaneous reactions were assessed.
Results: The most frequent cutaneous reaction was acneiform eruption (10 cases). The patients were treated with topical erythromycin and clindamycin, or with doxycycline. Also reported were seborrheic dermatitis (5), paronychia (4), xerosis (3), mouth blisters (3), blepharitis (2), cheilitis (1), and fissures on the hands and feet (1). The first reactions to appear were seborrheic dermatitis (9.8 days until onset) and acneiform eruption (11.8 days), whereas the paronychia presented latest (65.3 days). One patient with acneiform eruption and another with paronychia suspended treatment until the lesions improved.
Conclusions: Erlotinib induces adverse effects in most patients treated. Acneiform eruption, seborrheic dermatitis, and paronychia are the most frequently reported reactions and can lead to temporary suspension of erlotinib administration.