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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
11:39

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis

Published on: July 11, 2013

Prophylaxis and treatment of dermatologic adverse events from epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

Peggy A Wu1, Yevgeniy Balagula, Mario E Lacouture

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Current Opinion in Oncology
|May 4, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Dermatologic side effects from epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs) are common and impact quality of life. This review offers a symptom-based approach to managing these toxicities, improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Targeted therapies, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs), are increasingly used in cancer treatment.
  • While EGFRIs have fewer systemic side effects than traditional chemotherapy, dermatologic adverse events are significantly more common.
  • These skin toxicities can lead to reduced treatment adherence and decreased patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive, symptom-based treatment approach for managing dermatologic side effects associated with EGFRIs.
  • To review current literature and clinical trial results on prophylaxis and treatment options for EGFRIs-induced skin toxicities.
  • To offer practical recommendations for clinicians managing patients on EGFRIs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on common dermatologic adverse effects of EGFRIs.
  • Analysis of prophylaxis and treatment strategies, including topical and systemic options.
  • Inclusion of new clinical trial data and expert clinical practice recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Common EGFRIs dermatologic toxicities include papulopustular rash, xerosis, pruritus, and hair, nail, and mucosal changes.
  • Prophylaxis and treatment options are presented for each toxicity, ranging from topical to systemic therapies.
  • Emphasis is placed on recent clinical trial findings and practical management strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of EGFRIs-induced dermatologic toxicities is crucial for maintaining patient quality of life.
  • This review serves as a practical resource for healthcare providers managing these adverse events.
  • Optimizing the management of skin toxicities can improve treatment adherence and patient outcomes.

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