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Cutaneous pigmentation after photosensitivity induced by vandetanib therapy

Heidi H Kong1, Howard A Fine, Jere B Stern

  • 1Dermatology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg 10, Room 12N238, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. konghe@mail.nih.gov

Archives of Dermatology
|August 19, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Vandetanib treatment can cause skin hyperpigmentation following photosensitivity. Early photoprotection may help resolve this unusual drug-induced skin reaction.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Vandetanib, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is used in cancer therapy.
  • Photosensitivity is a known adverse effect of vandetanib treatment.

Observation:

  • Two patients developed cutaneous hyperpigmentation after experiencing photosensitivity to vandetanib.
  • Variable pigmentation patterns were observed within and between patients.
  • Biopsies showed inconsistent Perls and Fontana staining, indicating complex melanin deposition.

Findings:

  • Vandetanib can induce both photosensitivity and subsequent cutaneous hyperpigmentation.
  • The observed hyperpigmentation exhibited significant variability in presentation.

Implications:

  • This highlights acquired photosensitivity and hyperpigmentation as potential adverse effects of targeted therapies.
  • Dermatologists should recognize and report such reactions to new drugs.
  • Aggressive photoprotection is recommended for managing diffuse hyperpigmentation.

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