Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp following cetuximab

Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody that directly inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor and thus inhibits cell proliferation, angiogenesis and potential metastases whilst promoting apoptosis. Cutaneous reactions are a well documented side effect from the use of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, with a positive relationship established between the severity of the cutaneous adverse reaction and the efficacy of cetuximab. We present a case of 51-year-old male who, after three months use of cetuximab for metastatic colon cancer, presenting with erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) that improved with the combination of potent topical steroids and oral antibiotics. This is the first recorded presentation of EPDS in association with cetuximab.