[Cutaneous side effects of anti-tumor therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Context:

• BRAF and MEK inhibitors represent novel targeted therapies for malignancies, particularly malignant melanoma.
• These targeted therapies are increasingly utilized in cancer treatment regimens.

Purpose:

• To summarize the most frequent cutaneous side effects associated with BRAF and MEK inhibitor treatment.
• To provide guidance on the management of these dermatologic adverse events.

Summary:

• Cutaneous side effects are common with BRAF and MEK inhibitors, encompassing inflammatory reactions (e.g., exanthema, hand-foot syndrome, paronychia) and proliferative disorders.
• BRAF inhibitors specifically can induce keratinocyte and melanocyte proliferation, leading to conditions like palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, verruciform lesions, and potentially secondary melanomas.
• Other reported side effects include hair alterations and xerosis.

Impact:

• Highlights the necessity for vigilant dermatologic monitoring during BRAF and MEK inhibitor therapy.
• Aims to improve patient management by detailing common skin toxicities and their therapeutic approaches.