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A case of exemestane induced pseudocellulitis.
Ooi Xue Ting1, Liau MeiQi May2, Huang Jingxiang3
1Department of Internal Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
Dermatologic Therapy
|April 18, 2020
Summary
This study details a rare case of pseudocellulitis, a skin inflammation, caused by the breast cancer drug exemestane. Awareness of this adverse reaction is crucial for accurate diagnosis and avoiding unnecessary treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor used for hormone-sensitive breast cancer.
- Pseudocellulitis is a non-infectious skin inflammation mimicking cellulitis.
- Tamoxifen is a common alternative treatment for breast cancer.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman developed unilateral lower limb erythema, edema, and warmth after switching to exemestane.
- Initial investigations, including Doppler ultrasound, were unremarkable.
- Skin biopsy revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were diagnosed as exemestane-induced leukocytoclastic vasculitis presenting as pseudocellulitis.
- Treatment with systemic and topical steroids led to complete resolution within two weeks.
- This is the first reported case of exemestane-induced pseudocellulitis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider exemestane-induced pseudocellulitis in patients presenting with unexplained skin inflammation.
- Recognizing this adverse drug reaction can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions.
- Increased awareness among dermatologists and oncologists is vital for patient care.
