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Updated: May 12, 2026
Spatial and Temporal Control of Murine Melanoma Initiation from Mutant Melanocyte Stem Cells
Published on: June 7, 2019
Neutrophilic panniculitis developing after treatment of metastatic melanoma with vemurafenib
Gene H Kim1, Alan Levy, Goli Compoginis
1Department of Dermatology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA. genekim@usc.edu
Abstract:
Vemurafenib is an inhibitor of BRAF and is used to treat patients with metastatic melanoma who carry a V600E BRAF mutation. Recently, four patients have been described in the literature who developed a neutrophilic panniculitis following treatment with a BRAF inhibitor. We present an additional case and review the clinical findings of the cases reported to date.
Insights
Vemurafenib, a BRAF inhibitor for melanoma, can cause neutrophilic panniculitis. This report details an additional case and reviews similar cases, highlighting a rare side effect of BRAF inhibitor therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vemurafenib is a targeted therapy for metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600E mutations.
- BRAF inhibitors represent a significant advancement in melanoma treatment.
- Adverse events associated with targeted therapies require careful monitoring.
Observation:
- Four cases of neutrophilic panniculitis linked to BRAF inhibitors were previously reported.
- This study presents an additional patient developing neutrophilic panniculitis during vemurafenib treatment.
- Neutrophilic panniculitis is a rare inflammatory skin reaction.
Findings:
- The presented case adds to the literature on BRAF inhibitor-associated neutrophilic panniculitis.
- Clinical findings from this case and previously reported cases are reviewed.
- The review aims to consolidate understanding of this specific adverse event.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of neutrophilic panniculitis among clinicians treating melanoma patients with BRAF inhibitors.
- Potential need for vigilance and early recognition of this rare side effect.
- Further research may elucidate the mechanisms underlying this reaction and inform management strategies.
