Gefitinib-induced hair alterations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are a targeted anticancer therapy.
• These inhibitors are generally well-tolerated, with a common side effect being a papulopustular rash.
• Hair changes can occur during prolonged treatment with EGFR inhibitors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of hair alterations in a non-small-cell lung cancer patient treated with gefitinib.
• To describe the specific changes in scalp hair and contrast them with facial hair.
• To highlight the limited understanding and management recommendations for this adverse effect.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a non-small-cell lung cancer patient.
• Observation of hair changes after several months of gefitinib treatment.
• Clinical description of scalp hair characteristics (growth rate, texture, curl).

Main Results:

• The patient experienced slower scalp hair growth.
• Scalp hair became finer, more brittle, and curlier.
• Eyelashes, eyebrows, and other facial hair remained unaffected.

Conclusions:

• EGFR inhibition may cause hair alterations, potentially due to effects on skin.
• The exact etiology of these hair changes remains unclear.
• Further research is needed to understand and manage EGFR inhibitor-induced hair alterations.