Management of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor-related cutaneous and gastrointestinal toxicities

Abstract

Patients with advanced stage non–small cell lung cancer with sensitizing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations using EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as erlotinib, gefitinib and afatinib as first-line treatment had better progression-free survival, overall response rate and quality of life than those on chemotherapy. Although EGFR TKIs are commonly associated with skin-related (rash, xerosis and paronychia) and gastrointestinal-related (diarrhea and stomatitis) adverse events (AEs), these effects are usually mild. But severe cases can occur, significantly affecting patient's well-being, treatment compliance and quality of life. Therefore, patient education, early diagnosis, and prophylactic treatment are important strategies to optimally manage EGFR TKI-related adverse effects. In this review, we summarize the commonly encountered EGFR TKI-related AEs and provide a current overview of AE management in local practice with a focus on Asian patients.