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Managing Cutaneous Side Effects From Targeted Molecular Inhibitors for Melanoma and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
1*Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt, New York, New York; †Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Hospital Center, New York, New York.
Background:
Targeted anticancer therapies can cause cutaneous adverse events different from classical chemotherapeutic toxicities.
Objective:
To review the literature on dermatologic adverse events (DAEs) of targeted molecular inhibitors for melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers with a focus on management options.
Materials And Methods:
A comprehensive literature search related to the side effects and management of these side effects from vemurafenib, dabrafenib, trametinib (BRAF inhibitors), pembrolizumab (antiprogrammed-death-receptor-1 antibody), imatinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor), ipilimumab (anticytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 antibody), cetuximab (epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor), sorafenib (multikinase inhibitor), and vismodegib (smoothened receptor inhibitor).
Results:
No large controlled studies specifically examining the management of DAEs of targeted molecular inhibitors exist, although there are case report-based recommendations and algorithms developed by expert panels to manage these adverse events.
Conclusion:
Many options for managing the cutaneous side effects of targeted molecular inhibitors are similar to those used in general dermatology practice. When used effectively, drug dosing and patient quality of life may be optimized.
Insights
Targeted therapies for skin cancer can cause unique skin side effects. Management strategies, often similar to general dermatology, can optimize drug dosing and patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Targeted anticancer therapies present unique cutaneous adverse events (DAEs) distinct from traditional chemotherapy.
- Understanding these DAEs is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on dermatologic adverse events (DAEs) associated with targeted molecular inhibitors used for melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.
- To focus on available management options for these DAEs.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted.
- The search included studies on side effects and their management for specific targeted inhibitors: BRAF inhibitors (vemurafenib, dabrafenib, trametinib), PD-1 antibody (pembrolizumab), tyrosine kinase inhibitor (imatinib), CTLA-4 antibody (ipilimumab), EGFR inhibitor (cetuximab), multikinase inhibitor (sorafenib), and smoothened receptor inhibitor (vismodegib).
Main Results:
- No large, controlled studies specifically addressing DAE management for targeted inhibitors were identified.
- Recommendations and management algorithms are primarily based on case reports and expert panel consensus.
Conclusions:
- Management of cutaneous side effects from targeted molecular inhibitors often aligns with standard dermatological practices.
- Effective management can optimize drug dosing and improve patient quality of life.
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