Palbociclib-Induced Vitiligo-Like Lesions: A Report of a Challenging Case

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4 and 6 inhibitors, including palbociclib, are standard treatments for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
• While efficacious, these targeted therapies are associated with potential dermatologic adverse events, such as vitiligo-like depigmentation.

Observation:

• A 52-year-old female with HR+, HER2- metastatic breast cancer developed asymptomatic depigmented lesions on her lower limbs and abdomen.
• These lesions appeared seven months after initiating palbociclib treatment.
• Differential diagnoses were excluded, confirming drug-induced vitiligo.

Findings:

• Treatment with topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors did not lead to significant improvement in the depigmentation.
• This case underscores the occurrence of rare dermatologic side effects associated with palbociclib therapy.

Implications:

• The findings highlight the importance of recognizing and monitoring for drug-induced vitiligo in patients receiving CDK4/6 inhibitors.
• Further research is warranted to establish effective management strategies for this rare but potentially distressing side effect.
• Enhanced clinical vigilance and reporting are crucial for improving patient care and understanding the long-term implications of palbociclib treatment.