A novel approach to manage skin toxicity caused by cetuximab and panitumumab.

616 Background: Inhibition of the EGFR represents one of the most important fields for research and development in cancer therapy. Skin rash has been documented as one of the most common adverse reactions in patients receiving EGFR inhibitors. Several approaches have been attempted to manage skin toxicity. Nicotinamide has been shown to be an effective treatment for skin inflammation in various conditions, since nicotinamide inhibits IL-8 production through the NF-kB and MAPK pathways in an in vitro keratinocytes/P. acnes model of inflammation. Furthermore green tea polyphenols could be useful in attenuation of solar UVB light-induced oxidative stress-mediated and MAPK-caused skin disorders in humans. Methods: Therapy protocol for skin toxicity consisted of: topic applications of green tea and a mostouizer and orally given nicotinamide. Patients were monitored weekly and data regarding skin toxicity (NCI-CTC grade, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), a global score evaluating all the parameters) were recorded. Results: Between September 2009 and September 2010, 13 colorectal cancer patients receiving anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies (cetuximab or panitumumab) and developing skin toxicity, were treated by a multidisciplinary team including oncologists, dermatologists, a pathologist, and a nurse. All the patients experienced a significative eduction of erythema, papulo-pustular rash, paronychia, fissuring, xerosis, and itching. A significative improvement of the global score and of DLQI was evident. No toxicity related to the treatment of skin toxicity was observed. Conclusions: Treatment with nicotinamide, green tea, and moisturizer represents a novel effective approach to manage skin toxicity caused by cetuximab and panitumumab. No significant financial relationships to disclose.