Dermatological toxicity associated with targeted therapies in cancer: optimal management

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in cancer treatment, driven by a deeper understanding of carcinogenesis.
• These therapies modulate critical pathways including signal transduction, tumor angiogenesis, and the tumor microenvironment.
• While generally avoiding chemotherapy's systemic side effects, targeted agents frequently induce specific and potentially debilitating skin toxicities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the skin toxicities associated with major targeted therapy drug classes.
• To detail the symptoms, frequency, evolution, and complications of these dermatologic adverse events.
• To provide insights into topical and oral treatment strategies for improved diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of targeted therapies and their associated skin toxicities.
• Analysis of drug classes including EGFR, BRAF, MEK, mTOR, c-KIT, CTLA4, and SMO inhibitors, and anti-angiogenic agents.
• Examination of clinical presentation, management, and impact on quality of life.

Main Results:

• Targeted therapies induce distinct skin toxicities, differing from traditional chemotherapy side effects.
• These toxicities can significantly affect patient quality of life and potentially lead to treatment modifications.
• Specific drug classes are associated with characteristic dermatologic manifestations.

Conclusions:

• Understanding and managing targeted therapy-induced skin toxicity is essential for optimal patient care.
• Prompt and appropriate management can mitigate symptom severity and prevent treatment discontinuation.
• This review aims to enhance the diagnosis and management of these common adverse events.