Erlotinib-induced skin rash. Pathogenesis, clinical significance and management in pancreatic cancer patients.

Erlotinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor with anti epidermal growth factor receptor activity, approved as first line treatment concurrently administrated with gemcitabine for locally advanced unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer. One of the most common side effects, rash, is possibly linked to overall and progression-free survival and may serve as a potential surrogate marker. Nevertheless, erlotinib-induced rash is cause of negative impact on patients' quality of life and often can trigger discontinuation of treatment. Adequate and timely management of rash depending on the grade of rash is important for therapy continuation.