Dermatologic Adverse Events of Systemic Anticancer Therapies: Cytotoxic Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2020 May:40:485-500. doi: 10.1200/EDBK_289911.

Abstract

Over the past 2 decades, rapid advancement in systemic anticancer therapeutics has led to astounding improvement in survival rates of patients with cancer. However, this celebrated progress has brought with it an evolving spectrum of drug toxicities that limit their prodigious capabilities. Cutaneous adverse events are of the most frequent of these toxicities, with substantial impact on quality of life and commonly resulting in dose reduction or change in therapy. Thus, familiarity with the array of dermatologic manifestations caused by these drugs is prudent for patient treatment. As such, the advent of dedicated oncodermatologists, and their introduction into multidisciplinary cancer care, has been crucial in optimizing treatment through therapeutic achievement and overall well-being. This review will address the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and management strategies of the major dermatologic adverse events of systemic anticancer agents, including cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cytotoxins / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Skin / drug effects*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Cytotoxins