INTRODUCTION: Currently, the inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase erlotinib is widely used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Patients with a mutation or deletion in the epidermal growth factor receptor gene will benefit most and are likely to receive the drug for long periods and willing to accept side effects if responding. METHODS: Twenty-two cases with prolonged administration of erlotinib (at least 6 months) and side effects are reported. Three cases with specific side effects are described in detail. RESULTS: In addition to the well-known side effects such as folliculitis and diarrhea, patients reported paronychia, fatigue, and hair changes. DISCUSSION: After prolonged administration of erlotinib in most patients, the initial side effects persist while other inconvenient ones may develop. This may lead to dose reductions or even cessation of treatment.
INTRODUCTION: Currently, the inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase erlotinib is widely used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Patients with a mutation or deletion in the epidermal growth factor receptor gene will benefit most and are likely to receive the drug for long periods and willing to accept side effects if responding. METHODS: Twenty-two cases with prolonged administration of erlotinib (at least 6 months) and side effects are reported. Three cases with specific side effects are described in detail. RESULTS: In addition to the well-known side effects such as folliculitis and diarrhea, patients reported paronychia, fatigue, and hair changes. DISCUSSION: After prolonged administration of erlotinib in most patients, the initial side effects persist while other inconvenient ones may develop. This may lead to dose reductions or even cessation of treatment.
Authors: Mario E Lacouture; Milan J Anadkat; René-Jean Bensadoun; Jane Bryce; Alexandre Chan; Joel B Epstein; Beth Eaby-Sandy; Barbara A Murphy Journal: Support Care Cancer Date: 2011-06-01 Impact factor: 3.603
Authors: Aurelio Moya-García; Tolulope Adeyelu; Felix A Kruger; Natalie L Dawson; Jon G Lees; John P Overington; Christine Orengo; Juan A G Ranea Journal: Sci Rep Date: 2017-08-31 Impact factor: 4.379