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Sunitinib-induced reversible purpuric rash in a patient with gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Hasan Mutlu1, Abdullah Büyükçelik2, Zeki Akça3
1Department of Medical Oncology, Acıbadem Kayseri Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey doktorhasanmutlu@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Sunitinib which is used in the treatment of kidney cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, and advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor is a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Although sunitinib is associated with some side effects, it is generally well tolerated. In the present case, the diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor was four years ago. The patient had multiple liver metastases at the time of diagnosis. Sunitinib was initiated with a dose of 50 mg daily for four weeks and two weeks off, because of resistance of imatinib. The patient was admitted to the hospital with purpuric rash on her arms and body in the eighth week of treatment. No other disorders or drugs which may cause purpuric rash were detected in the patient. Purpuric rash disappeared two weeks after sunitinib discontinuation without any further intervention.
Insights
Sunitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor for cancers like GIST, can cause purpuric rash. This side effect resolved after discontinuing the drug, indicating a potential link.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sunitinib is a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), kidney cancer, and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
- While generally well-tolerated, sunitinib can cause various side effects.
Observation:
- A patient with GIST and liver metastases, previously treated with imatinib, developed a purpuric rash on arms and body during the eighth week of sunitinib therapy (50 mg daily, 4 weeks on/2 weeks off).
- No other potential causes for the rash, such as concurrent disorders or medications, were identified.
Findings:
- The purpuric rash resolved completely within two weeks of discontinuing sunitinib.
- This suggests a causal relationship between sunitinib treatment and the development of purpuric rash in this patient.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should be vigilant for dermatological side effects, including purpuric rash, during sunitinib treatment for GIST.
- Discontinuation of sunitinib may be an effective intervention for managing sunitinib-induced purpuric rash.
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