Cutaneous Toxicities of Molecular Targeted Therapies

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Targeted antineoplastic therapies, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and BRAF inhibitors, are associated with significant systemic and cutaneous side effects.
• These adverse skin reactions can negatively impact patients' quality of life, potentially necessitating treatment dose reduction or discontinuation, thereby compromising therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the toxic cutaneous reactions associated with commonly used molecular targeted therapies.
• To detail the frequency, diagnosis, and treatment of these skin reactions.
• To provide guidance for clinically efficient management to maintain patient quality of life, treatment compliance, and therapeutic effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Review of toxic cutaneous reactions linked to prevalent molecular targeted therapies (EGFR inhibitors, TKIs, BRAF inhibitors).
• Analysis of the occurrence frequency, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies for these reactions.
• Emphasis on the importance of recognizing and managing these adverse events.

Main Results:

• Targeted therapies frequently induce skin reactions, ranging in severity.
• Effective management strategies can mitigate side effects, allowing for continued treatment.
• Understanding these toxicities is vital for oncologists and dermatologists.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge of cutaneous adverse reactions to targeted therapies is essential for optimal oncologic patient management.
• Collaborative recognition and understanding of treatment mechanisms by oncologists and dermatologists are critical.
• Accurate evaluation of skin toxicity aids in treatment decisions, influencing patient survival and response.