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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
Published on: September 18, 2013
[Henoch-schönlein purpura induced by erlotinib (Tarceva): a case report]
Tatsuya Yuba1, Kazuhiro Nagata, Shinsuke Shiotsu
1Internal Medicine, Social Insurance Kyoto Hospital.
Abstract:
Erlotinib is a newly developed molecular-targeting or molecular-targeted drug with selective inhibitory activity for tyrosine kinase of the epidermal growth factor receptor. A adverse drug reactions including diarrhea, skin eruptions are considered mild. We report a case of recurrent adenocarcinoma of the lung in a 68-year-old woman who suffered from Henoch-Schönlein purpura induced by erlotinib. She received daily administration of erlotinib 150 mg as second-line chemotherapy. Her tumors decreased in size and pleural effusion disappeared, so we considered erlotinib effective. However after 3 months of treatment with erlotinib, the patient presented palpable purpuric lesions mostly located on her lower legs. We diagnosed Henoch-Schönlein purpura based on skin histological findings. Erlotinib was reduced but continued, with improvement of the eruptions. Henoch-Schönlein purpura is often accompanied by systemic manifestations, such as renal disease and arthritis, so more careful follow-up is warranted.
Insights
Erlotinib, a targeted therapy for lung cancer, can rarely cause Henoch-Schönlein purpura. This case highlights a potential adverse drug reaction requiring careful patient monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Erlotinib is a targeted therapy inhibiting epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase.
- Common side effects include diarrhea and skin rash, typically mild.
- Lung adenocarcinoma treatment involves various chemotherapeutic agents.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old woman with recurrent lung adenocarcinoma received erlotinib.
- Tumor response was positive, with decreased size and resolution of pleural effusion.
- After three months, she developed palpable purpuric lesions on her lower legs.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Henoch-Schönlein purpura.
- Histological findings confirmed the diagnosis.
- Erlotinib dose reduction led to improvement in the skin eruptions.
Implications:
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura is a rare but serious adverse drug reaction to erlotinib.
- Systemic involvement (renal disease, arthritis) necessitates vigilant patient monitoring.
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing unusual drug toxicities.
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