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Gemcitabine-associated scleroderma-like changes of the lower extremities
Didier Bessis1, Bernard Guillot, Eric Legouffe
1Department of Dermatology-Phlébology, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Montpellier, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, Montpellier, France. d-bessis@chu-montpellier.fr
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|July 29, 2004
Summary
Gemcitabine, used for bladder cancer, can cause rare scleroderma-like skin changes. Stopping the drug reversed these adverse effects, indicating a potential treatment-related reaction.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gemcitabine is a standard chemotherapy agent for metastatic urothelial carcinoma.
- Scleroderma-like reactions are rare side effects of certain antineoplastic agents.
Observation:
- A patient receiving gemcitabine for bladder cancer developed significant lower extremity edema and scleroderma-like skin changes.
- Skin biopsy confirmed diffuse sclerosis without fascial or muscular involvement.
Findings:
- Gemcitabine treatment was directly associated with the onset of these scleroderma-like changes.
- Discontinuation of gemcitabine led to rapid resolution of edema and partial reversal of fibrosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights gemcitabine as a potential cause of drug-induced scleroderma-like reactions.
- Oncologists should be aware of this rare adverse effect and consider it in patients on gemcitabine therapy.