Skin toxicities during colorectal cancer chemotherapy: incidence and pearls of treatment in our experience

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION Medical treatment of advanced colorectal cancer is effective in prolonging the survival of patients. The aim of this study was: to describe the most common skin toxicities that occur in those patients, analysing the association between the type of reaction and the different chemotherapeutic drugs and to evaluate the importance of an outpatient dermatological service to improve quality of life. PATIENTS AND METHODS 72 patients affected by chemotherapy skin reactions from advanced colorectal cancer were included. Each patient underwent physical examination, digital photographic images, and a quality of life questionnaire (dermatology life quality index - DLQI). RESULTS Papulo-pustular rash was the most common side effect observed. It is statistically associated with EGFRi+ IRINOTECANO, EGFRi+FOLFOX and EGFRi. Xerosis occurred in 50% of our patients during EGFRi therapy. Periungual pyogenic granuloma-like lesions occurred in 30% of our patients during EGFRi therapy.Our data underline a statistically significant association between capecitabine, Folfox + EGFRi, Folfiri + EGFRi and hand foot syndrome (p CONCLUSION A dermatologic visit is useful both for the correct diagnosis and for the adequate therapy of chemotherapy side effects. The prevention and treatment of these toxicities are important not only to improve quality of life but also to avoid unnecessary dose reduction or interruption, which can have a negative effect on treatment outcome.