Cutaneous Side Effects of Oncology Drugs: Part 2 - Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Doctor Connie XI continued the discussion on cutaneous side effects of oncology drugs, focusing on targeted therapy and immunotherapy. She highlighted the increasing number of oncology therapies and their associated skin side effects, emphasizing the role of dermatologists in managing these issues to maintain patient quality of life and medication adherence. Key topics included epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, such as amivantamab, which has significant cutaneous toxicities like acneiform rashes and scalp issues. Treatments for these conditions involve employing emollients, topical steroids, and antibiotics, and in severe cases, systemic retinoids or dose adjustments may be necessary. Additionally, she explored antibody drug conjugates like infortumab vedotin, which can cause skin toxicities due to targets also present in normal skin, and discussed management strategies for these reactions, which can resemble toxic erythema from chemotherapy. Another category covered was bispecific T cell engagers, particularly those used for multiple myeloma, where skin and oral mucosal toxicities are prevalent. XI reiterated the importance of recognizing and managing these adverse effects effectively, to ensure that patients can continue their critical cancer therapies.