Erlotinib-Induced Transverse Fissure-Like Skin Lesions of Fingers

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Erlotinib is an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (EGFR-TK) antagonist.
• It is a standard therapy for non-small cell lung cancer.
• Common side effects include acneiform rash on the face, neck, chest, and back.

Observation:

• This report details unusual skin lesions on the fingers of patients treated with erlotinib.
• These lesions presented as transverse fissures with a beefy-red, laceration-like center.
• A unique characteristic was their location on the adductor surfaces and proximal phalanges.

Findings:

• The observed finger lesions represent a novel and previously unreported side effect of erlotinib.
• The morphology and location of these lesions are distinct from typical erlotinib-induced dermatologic toxicities.
• Correlation between skin toxicities and therapeutic efficacy/survival is noted for erlotinib.

Implications:

• Recognition of these unusual finger lesions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
• This finding expands the spectrum of known erlotinib dermatologic side effects.
• Further investigation into the mechanism of these specific lesions may enhance understanding of EGFR-TK inhibitor toxicity.