Chapter 23: Administration of systemic anticancer therapies
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Skin toxicities
Chemotherapy has the potential to cause skin reactions including dryness, erythema and discolouration (hyperpigmentation), which can have a significant emotional impact upon the patient (Camp‐Sorrell [27]). Hyperpigmentation is thought to be caused by the drug or a metabolic by‐product stimulating the production of melanin. EGFR antagonist drugs have resulted in dry skin, rashes and pruritus (Camp‐Sorrell [27]). The rash from EGFR inhibitors is commonly pustular in nature and is described as a form of acne that can affect the face, scalp and chest (Camp‐Sorrell [27]). Treatment includes the use of over‐the‐counter moisturizing creams as well as oral antibiotics.