Drug-induced photosensitivity associated with anticancer therapies

Despite the promising results in terms of effectiveness of anticancer treatments, a wide range of dermatologic adverse reactions have been reported. Among them, skin photosensitivity, defined as a range of dermatologic conditions caused or exacerbated by sunlight exposure, is an emerging adverse event.

A review of the current literature was performed to report the most characteristic phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies, as well as other characteristic manifestations potentially related to photo-exposure, including UV recall, vitiligo-like reactions, drug-induced cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and UV-induced hyperpigmentation.

A total of 30 manuscripts were collected in the present review, reporting several phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies.

Photosensitivity reactions are an increasing challenge in cancer management. The raising awareness about this adverse event has increased the identification of potential photosensitizing drugs as well as its prevention and the management. However, more studies are required to improve the knowledge of this cutaneous toxicity and to define a personalized treatment strategy.