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Characterization of Cutaneous Adverse Events Associated With PI3K Inhibitors in 11 Patients
Padmavathi V Karri1,2, Benjamin D Freemyer1,2, Omar Pacha1
1Department of Dermatology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
Introduction:
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors are a new class of cancer therapeutics that inhibits one or more enzymes in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR tumor growth pathway. As compared to other tyrosine kinase inhibitors, there is evidence that PI3K inhibitors have a higher incidence of severe cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) ranging from 2-21%. There is a lack of further characterization of clinical trials and management options for these CAEs.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review of our institution's records between January 2015 and May 2019 was conducted; electronic medical records were queried by using a pharmacy database and ICD-10 codes for patients receiving PI3K inhibitor who experienced CAEs during therapy. These CAEs were characterized by two board-certified dermatologists at a major cancer center.
Results:
Eleven patients were identified as having 12 cumulative CAEs. Average time to rash onset was 4 weeks, and the most common identified rashes were eczematous (25%) and morbilliform (17%). Four patients experienced a dose delay, and one patient immediately discontinued their PI3K inhibitor.
Conclusion:
Although most CAEs caused by PI3K inhibitors in this study were limited to grade 1-2 and were controlled with topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamines, a number of patients experienced dose impact. This highlights the dermatologist's role in managing and minimizing interruption of therapy while maintaining quality of life.
Insights
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors can cause severe skin reactions. Most cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) were manageable with standard treatments, but some required dose adjustments, underscoring the need for dermatological management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors target the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway for cancer treatment.
- These inhibitors are associated with a higher incidence of cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) compared to other tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Characterization and management strategies for PI3K inhibitor-induced CAEs are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical presentation and outcomes of cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) in patients treated with phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors.
- To evaluate the management strategies and impact of CAEs on cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients receiving PI3K inhibitors between January 2015 and May 2019.
- Electronic medical records were queried using pharmacy databases and ICD-10 codes for patients experiencing CAEs.
- CAEs were characterized by two board-certified dermatologists.
Main Results:
- Eleven patients experienced 12 cumulative CAEs, with an average onset of 4 weeks.
- The most common rashes were eczematous (25%) and morbilliform (17%).
- Four patients required dose delays, and one discontinued therapy due to CAEs.
Conclusions:
- Most PI3K inhibitor-related CAEs were mild (grade 1-2) and responsive to topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamines.
- Despite manageable toxicity, some CAEs necessitated dose adjustments, impacting treatment continuity.
- Dermatological intervention is crucial for managing CAEs, minimizing therapy interruption, and preserving patient quality of life.
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