Gefitinib-associated lichen planus pigmentosus-like eruption

Dermatol Online J. 2021 May 15;27(5). doi: 10.5070/D327553616.

Abstract

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is one of the oncogenic pathways in non-small cell lung cancer. Gefitinib is classified as a first-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). A variety of cutaneous adverse effects related to the drug has been reported. Cutaneous hyperpigmentation is a rare side effect of EGFR inhibitor (EGFRi). Herein, we report a 62-year-old woman with non-small cell lung carcinoma who presented with symmetrical, slate-gray-to-brownish-black macular pigmentation on sun-exposed and non-sun-exposed areas after eight months of gefitinib administration. The clinical features were consistent with lichen planus pigmentosus. This case highlights the unusual hyperpigmented condition occurring in patients taking EGFR-TKIs.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / drug therapy
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology*
  • Female
  • Gefitinib / adverse effects*
  • Gefitinib / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation / chemically induced*
  • Lichen Planus / chemically induced*
  • Lung Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Gefitinib