Xanthelasma palpebrarum: a new side effect of nilotinib

Chronic myeloid leucaemia (CML) is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder characterised by a reciprocal translocation between the chromosomes 9 and 22 resulting in constitutionally active tyrosine kinase signalling. BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are highly effective molecules in the treatment of CML. Unfortunately, these novel therapeutic agents are accompanied by various side effects, and haematological, cutaneous and metabolic abnormalities are among the most prevalent. Nilotinib, a second-generation TKI, has been shown to cause both--cutaneous lesions and lipid profile abnormalities. We present two CML cases developing xanthelasma palpebrarum while receiving nilotinib. Case 1 also acquired a lipid abnormality following the start of nilotinib therapy, while case 2 meanwhile stayed normolipidemic. In addition to a low cholesterol diet, atorvastatin was prescribed to case 1. Currently, both cases are normolipidemic and continuing their nilotinib therapy. Xanthelasma palpebrarum secondary to nilotinib therapy is new to the literature.