Pan Canadian Rash Trial: A Randomized Phase III Trial Evaluating the Impact of a Prophylactic Skin Treatment Regimen on Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Induced Skin Toxicities in Patients With Metastatic Lung Cancer

Management of human epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors-related acneiform rash: A position paper based on the first Europe/USA Delphi consensus process

BACKGROUND

There is a need for unified guidance in the management of acneiform rash induced by epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRi) among dermatologists.

OBJECTIVE

To establish unified international guidelines for the management of acneiform rash caused by EGFR inhibitors, based on an experts' Delphi consensus.

METHODS

The initiative was led by five members of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Force 'Dermatology for Cancer Patients' who developed a questionnaire that was circulated to a group of 32 supportive oncodermatology experts in Europe, Canada, Argentina, the US States and Asia. The questionnaire consisted of 84 statements in total, regarding diagnosis and treatment of EGFRi-induced acneiform rash. Experts responded to an anonymous 5-point Likert scale survey. The coordinators collected the first-round responses that were checked for consensus (≥75% agreement in positive [agree or strongly agree] or in negative [disagree or strongly disagree] vote). The statements that did not reach strong consensus in the first round were revised, according to experts' feedback, for a second-round survey.

RESULTS

Strong consensus was reached in 75/84 (89.3%) of the statements, whilst moderate consensus was achieved in 6/84 elements. Key points include consideration of low-dose isotretinoin for refractory grade II/III acneiform rash, use of topical steroid-sparing agents like topical pimecrolimus in the maintenance phase and use of doxycycline in either 100 or 200 mg per day as prophylactic treatment. Interestingly, experts did not recommend topical antibiotics, neither for prevention, nor for treatment. Consensus failure in 3/84 objects is mostly related to the lack of robust data on these topics.

CONCLUSION

This consensus offers crucial insights often overlooked by radiotherapists, general practitioners, dermatologists and oncologists, and it is expected to improve the management of oncologic patients treated with EGFRi in different settings and continents.

CYpHER: Catalytic extracellular targeted protein degradation with high potency and durable effect

Many disease-causing proteins have multiple pathogenic mechanisms, and conventional inhibitors struggle to reliably disrupt more than one. Targeted protein degradation (TPD) can eliminate the protein, and thus all its functions, by directing a cell's protein turnover machinery towards it. Two established strategies either engage catalytic E3 ligases or drive uptake towards the endolysosomal pathway. Here we describe CYpHER (CatalYtic pH-dependent Endolysosomal delivery with Recycling) technology with potency and durability from a novel catalytic mechanism that shares the specificity and straightforward modular design of endolysosomal uptake. By bestowing pH-dependent release on the target engager and using the rapid-cycling transferrin receptor as the uptake receptor, CYpHER induces endolysosomal target delivery while re-using drug, potentially yielding increased potency and reduced off-target tissue exposure risks. The TfR-based approach allows targeting to tumors that overexpress this receptor and offers the potential for transport to the CNS. CYpHER function was demonstrated in vitro with EGFR and PD-L1, and in vivo with EGFR in a model of EGFR-driven non-small cell lung cancer.

Evaluation of the additional prophylactic effect of topical steroid ointment to systemic minocycline against anti-epidermal growth factor antibody-induced skin toxicities in metastatic colorectal cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibodies often cause skin toxicities. Preemptive skin treatments using systemic antibiotics with or without topical steroid are reportedly effective although the most suitable method remains unclear. This study aimed to determine whether combination prophylaxis using systemic minocycline and topical steroid is superior to minocycline alone in a real-world metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment.

METHODS

Patients with mCRC (n = 87) who received anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies were retrospectively assessed. The primary objective was to compare the incidence of grade ≥ 2 overall skin toxicities during all treatment periods between the control group receiving prophylactic minocycline 100 mg/day, and the combination prophylaxis group receiving minocycline 100 mg/day + topical steroid. The incidence of each skin symptom was also evaluated.

RESULTS

The incidence of grade ≥ 2 overall skin toxicities was 63.6% in the control and 56.9% in the combination groups, with no significant difference (P = 0.63). Similarly, the incidence of grade ≥ 2 dry skin, fissures, paronychia, and pruritus did not significantly differ. In addition, incidence of all-grade skin toxicities was not different. However, the incidence of grade ≥ 2 papulopustular rashes was significantly lower in the combination group (23.1% vs. 50.0%, P = 0.03). Propensity score-matched analysis supported these results. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no significant association between combination prophylaxis and grade ≥ 2 overall skin toxicities, but it did show a reduction in grade ≥ 2 papulopustular rashes.

CONCLUSION

Adding topical steroids to systemic minocycline did not mitigate grade ≥ 2 overall skin toxicities induced by anti-EGFR antibodies; however, it significantly improved papulopustular rashes.

Impact of minocycline on outcomes of EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with EGFR-TKIs

Minocycline is often administered prophylactically or therapeutically to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) for skin rash as an adverse event. We examined the effects of minocycline on the outcomes of EGFR-mutant NSCLC treated with first-line EGFR-TKIs based on a single-center retrospective analysis. In this retrospective cohort study, data were collected on NSCLC patients treated with first-line EGFR-TKIs between January 2010 and June 2021. The treatment efficacy of first-line EGFR-TKIs was compared between patients who received minocycline and those who did not. Median progression-free survival (PFS) with first-line EGFR-TKIs was significantly longer in the minocycline group (N = 32) than in the control group (N = 106); 714 (95% confidence interval CI 411-1247) days vs. 420 (95% CI 343-626) days, p = 0.019. A multivariate analysis including skin rash as a variable confirmed that the administration of minocycline for 30 days or longer correlated with good PFS and overall survival (OS) with first-line EGFR-TKIs (HR 0.44 [95% CI 0.27-0.73], p = 0.0014 and HR 0.50 [95% CI 0.27-0.92], p = 0.027, respectively). The administration of minocycline influenced good treatment efficacy with first-line EGFR-TKIs independently of skin rash.

Clinical impact of tetracyclines and/or proton pump inhibitors on the efficacy of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

This retrospective cohort study examined the impact of tetracyclines (TCs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) alone or in combination on the efficacy of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Patients with NSCLC treated with gefitinib or erlotinib for at least 1 week between January 2009 and October 2021 were enrolled and divided into four groups based on the presence/absence of TC and/or PPI in the therapeutic regimen: TC-/PPI-, TC + /PPI-, TC-/PPI + , TC + /PPI + . Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were the primary and secondary endpoints, respectively.

RESULTS

The estimated median PFS and OS of 347 included patients with NSCLC were 8.57 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.66-9.48) months and 13.10 (95% CI: 11.03-15.17) months, respectively. Co-administration of EGFR-TKIs with PPIs decreased the PFS and OS, while that with TCs improved the PFS and OS. However, the concomitant use of EGFR-TKIs, TCs, and PPIs yielded survival rates similar to that of EGFR-TKI therapy alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of EGFR-TKIs with other drugs poses a challenge in managing patients with NSCLC. Therefore, reassessing the indications and necessity of TC or PPI therapy is essential for patients receiving erlotinib or gefitinib. The benefits and risks of possible discontinuation due to the clinical relevance of this interaction should be considered.

A Drug Screening Reveals Minocycline Hydrochloride as a Therapeutic Option to Prevent Breast Cancer Cells Extravasation across the Blood-Brain Barrier

Among breast cancer (BC) patients, 15-25% develop BC brain metastases (BCBM), a severe condition due to the limited therapeutic options, which points to the need for preventive strategies. We aimed to find a drug able to boost blood-brain barrier (BBB) properties and prevent BC cells (BCCs) extravasation, among PI3K, HSP90, and EGFR inhibitors and approved drugs. We used BCCs (4T1) and BBB endothelial cells (b.End5) to identify molecules with toxicity to 4T1 cells and safe for b.End5 cells. Moreover, we used those cells in mixed cultures to perform a high-throughput microscopy screening of drugs' ability to ameliorate BBB properties and prevent BCCs adhesion and migration across the endothelium, as well as to analyse miRNAs expression and release profiles. KW-2478, buparlisib, and minocycline hydrochloride (MH) promoted maximal expression of the junctional protein β-catenin and induced 4T1 cells nucleus changes. Buparlisib and MH further decreased 4T1 adhesion. MH was the most promising in preventing 4T1 migration and BBB disruption, tumour and endothelial cytoskeleton-associated proteins modifications, and miRNA deregulation. Our data revealed MH's ability to improve BBB properties, while compromising BCCs viability and interaction with BBB endothelial cells, besides restoring miRNAs' homeostasis, paving the way for MH repurposing for BCBM prevention.

Prevention and management of acneiform rash associated with EGFR inhibitor therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are established therapies for advanced lung, colorectal, and head and neck cancers. They commonly cause acneiform eruptions that affect patient quality of life and may lead to discontinuation of therapy.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to assess strategies for the prevention and reactive management of acneiform rash associated with EGFR inhibitor therapy for advanced lung, colorectal, and head and neck cancers. A systematic Medline, Embase, and EBM Reviews database search was conducted on the 2nd of January 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement was followed and the studies were critically appraised. Studies were selected if they focused on preventing or treating acneiform eruptions in adults being treated for advanced lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and head and neck cancers with EGFR inhibitors.

RESULTS

Oral antibiotics had the greatest efficacy in preventing grade 2 or higher acneiform eruptions with a relative risk reduction of 40% (RR = .6, 95% CI .46-.79, p < .01). Other treatment modalities did not have statistically significant results. Topical antibiotics had a total relative risk reduction of 19% (RR = .81, 95% CI .45-1.48, p = .5). Vitamin K1 cream did not reduce the relative risk (RR = 1.08, 95% CI .45-1.48, p = .50). Sunscreen had a total relative risk reduction of 25% (RR = .75, 95% CI .49-1.14, p = .18).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this meta-analysis reinforce the fact that oral tetracycline antibiotics are the most efficacious prophylactic option for acneiform eruptions in EGFR inhibitors. They should be offered to suitable patients commencing treatment and used with a general skin-care routine involving emollients and avoidance of irritants.

Mechanism of Lethal Skin Toxicities Induced by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors and Related Treatment Strategies

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are widely used to treat various types of cancers such as non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer. Adverse reactions such as skin toxicity, interstitial lung disease, hepatotoxicity, ocular toxicity, hypomagnesemia, stomatitis, and diarrhea may occur during treatment. Because the EGFR signaling pathway is important for maintaining normal physiological skin function. Adverse skin reactions occurred in up to 90% of cancer patients treated with EGFR inhibitors, including common skin toxicities (such as papulopustular exanthemas, paronychia, hair changes) and rare fatal skin toxicities (e.g., Stevens–Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis). This has led to the dose reduction or discontinuation of EGFR inhibitors in the treatment of cancer. Recently, progress has been made about research on the skin toxicity of EGFR inhibitors. Here, we summarize the mechanism of skin toxicity caused by EGFR inhibitors, measures to prevent severe fatal skin toxicity, and provide reference for medical staff how to give care and treatment after adverse skin reactions.

Topical Zhiyang Pingfu Liquid for Moderate to Severe Skin Rash Associated With EGFRIs: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Skin rash is the most common adverse effect associated with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs). The study has observed the efficacy and safety of Zhiyang Pingfu Liquid in the treatment of EGFRIs-related moderate and severe rash.

METHODS

Patients suffering from EGFRIs-related moderate to severe rash were enrolled and then randomly divided into the treatment group and the control group, receiving Zhiyang Pingfu Liquid and placebo liquid respectively combined with minocycline and methylprednisolone recommended by guideline for 14 days. Changes in rash grades were observed, as well as the dosage of minocycline. Blood routine examination and liver and kidney function were evaluated to observe the safety of Zhiyang Pingfu Liquid. The total response of rash included complete response (CR) and partial response (PR). And the effective rate of rash was the percentage of CR and PR in the total cases.

RESULTS

A total of 54 out of 58 patients finished the study with 27 patients in each group. The effective rates of rash among the treatment group and the control group were 81.48% and 55.56% after 14 days treatment (P = .040). The treatment group had a lower dosage of minocycline compared with the control group. The median total dose of oral minocycline administration was 1000 mg in the treatment group and 1400 mg in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Zhiyang Pingfu Liquid can effectively improve the moderate and severe EGFRIs-induced rash, and reduce the use of minocycline, as well as the side reactions brought by minocycline. However, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to verify these findings.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, the registration number is ChiCTR1800017053.

Efficacy of Prophylactic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Skin Toxicity of Afatinib in EGFR Mutation-Positive Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Single-Center, Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized-Controlled Pilot Trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on skin toxicities in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with first-line epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in a randomized-controlled trial (RCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This pilot study was a prospective, single-center, double-blinded RCT. The study enrolled patients with a new diagnosis of locally advanced and metastatic lung adenocarcinoma harboring EGFR mutations who were treated with first-line afatinib from July 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017. Thirty patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were assigned to the TCM and placebo groups with simple randomization. TCM and placebo were initiated at the same time as afatinib and were administered for 3 months. The survival of each subject was followed until 3 years.

RESULTS

There were 36 patients with newly diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma during the study period. After the exclusion of 6 patients, the remaining 30 patients were assigned to the TCM (n = 14) and placebo (n = 16) groups comprising the intention-to-treat population. The time to first skin toxicity was 22.3 days in the TCM group and 17.6 days in the placebo group (P = .510) in the per-protocol population. The analysis of the present pilot study results determined that the difference in time to first skin toxicity between the 2 groups would reach statistical significance with a sample size of 237 based on a power of 0.8. There were significant differences in certain subscales of quality of life between the TCM and placebo groups; however, there was no significant difference in progression-free survival or overall survival between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrative TCM may prolong the time to first skin toxicity in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with first-line afatinib. Prophylactic TCM could delay skin toxicity of any grade and reduce the incidence of grade 3 skin toxicity. Future large-scale RCTs are warranted to validate these findings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05204758. Registered on 24 Jan 2022.

Purchase of prophylactic topical corticosteroids is associated with improved survival in NSCLCs treated with EGFR TKI: real-world cohort study

BACKGROUND

With the first- and second-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), clinical benefit and rash correlate together. EGFR TKI-induced rash can be alleviated with topical corticosteroids and tetracyclines. This study investigates whether prophylaxis with topical corticosteroids is associated with improved survival among the EGFR TKI-treated non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We collected all the patients (n = 1271) who had received reimbursement for the first- or second-generation EGFR TKIs in Finland 2011-2016, had purchased TKIs, and had data available at the Finnish Cancer Registry (FCR). Survival was analyzed from the first EGFR TKI purchase to death or the end of follow-up, and patients were stratified according to the TKIs, purchases of topical corticosteroids, and their timing.

RESULTS

A total of 270 (21%) patients had corticosteroid purchases -14 to +200 d (all), and 196 (15%) had purchased corticosteroids as prophylaxis (-14 to +14 d) from the first EGFR TKI purchase. Corticosteroid purchases were associated with improved survival in all (0.64 95% CI 0.56-0.74) and prophylactic (0.78, 95% CI 0.66-0.92) groups when compared to non-purchasers, although these results were limited to the erlotinib users only. The survival benefit of prophylactic corticosteroids among the erlotinib users remained in multivariate analysis including sex, stage, histology, and tetracycline prophylaxis (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.64-0.95). The prophylactic use of corticosteroids was associated with a longer erlotinib treatment duration (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64-0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic topical corticosteroids may improve the survival of NSCLC patients treated with EGFR TKIs, and they should be considered as prophylaxis when initiating EGFR TKIs with a high incidence of rash.

Tetracyclines increase the survival of NSCLC patients treated with EGFR TKIs: a retrospective nationwide registry study

BACKGROUND

With the first and second-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), clinical benefit and rash correlate together. EGFR TKI-induced rash can be alleviated with tetracyclines, but it is unknown whether the use of tetracyclines can increase the survival of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with EGFR TKIs.

METHODS

We collected all the patients (n=1271) who had reimbursement for EGFR TKIs (gefitinib, erlotinib and afatinib) in Finland 2011-2016, had purchased TKIs, and had data available at nationwide cancer registry. The survival was analysed from the first EGFR TKI purchase to death or end-of follow-up, and patients were stratified according to TKIs, purchases of antibiotics, their ATC class and timing.

RESULTS

802 (63.1%) patients had antibiotic purchases -14 to +200 days from the first EGFR TKI purchase, 447 of these tetracyclines. 322 (25.3%) had had purchased antibiotics -14 to +14 days (prophylaxis) from the first EGFR TKI purchase, 188 of these tetracyclines. Purchase of antibiotics was associated with improved survival (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.91), which limited to tetracycline purchases only (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.82). The largest survival benefit was seen with the prophylactic use of tetracyclines (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.88). The benefit from tetracyclines was limited to erlotinib only (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.78) which was retained in multivariate analysis. Prophylactic use of tetracyclines was associated with a longer erlotinib treatment duration (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.96) but not with dose reductions or treatment breaks.

CONCLUSIONS

Tetracyclines improve the survival of NSCLC patients treated with the first and second-generation EGFR TKIs and they should be considered as a prophylaxis when initiating EGFR TKIs with high incidence of rash.

Association between miRNA signatures in serum samples from epidermal growth factor inhibitor treated patients and skin toxicity

Objective: Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRI) are used as targeted cancer therapy. On average 70% of patients treated with EGFRIs suffer from skin toxicity. Studies showed a correlation between overall survival and the appearance of a skin rash, which is used as a biomarker for therapy efficacy. Micro RNAs (miRNA) as tumor or resistance biomarkers for cancer therapy are also highly investigated. In our study, we searched for associations of miRNA expression profiles in serum, with the severity of skin rash, in order to identify tentative therapy predictive biomarkers.

Materials and Methods: Five candidate miRNAs were selected, based on an earlier in vitro next-generation-sequencing-experiment and after literature search. MiR-21, miR-31, miR-17, miR-106b and miR-520e were investigated in serum samples from patients (n = 254) treated with EGFRI. The quantitative expression of miRNA was tested for association with the occurrence/severity of the rash.

Results: In our cohort of patients treated with EGFR inhibiting monoclonal antibodies, miR-21 and miR-520e serum concentrations were negatively correlated with severity of skin rash (p-value 0.000582 and 1.53e-07 linear-trend-test) whereas for miR-31, a positive correlation was observed (p-value 9.01e-06 linear-trend-test).

Conclusions: This suggests that miR-21, miR-31 and miR-520e expression might be a treatment dependent marker for EGFRI induced skin rash.

Results of the non-small cell lung cancer part of a phase III, open-label, randomized trial evaluating topical corticosteroid therapy for facial acneiform dermatitis induced by EGFR inhibitors: stepwise rank down from potent corticosteroid (FAEISS study, NCCH-1512)

PURPOSE

This FAEISS study was designed to confirm the superior efficacy of reactive topical corticosteroid strategies employing serially ranking-DOWN from very strong steroid levels for the treatment of facial acneiform rash induced by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors (EGFRIs), in comparison with strategies employing serially ranking-UP from weak steroid levels. This article reports the primary results of the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) part of the trial.

METHODS

Patients with EGFR-mutated advanced NSCLC treated with erlotinib or afatinib were enrolled in the first registration. All patients received preemptive therapy with oral minocycline and heparinoid moisturizer from the initiation of an EGFR inhibitor. Enrolled patients who developed facial acneiform rash within 2 weeks were randomized at second registration to either a ranking-UP (WEAK) group or a ranking-DOWN group. The primary endpoint was incidence of grade ≥ 2 facial acneiform rash over 8 weeks.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were enrolled at the first registration and received EGFRIs (n = 30 for afatinib, n = 21 for erlotinib). However, 35 patients did not develop facial acneiform rash within 2 weeks; one patient discontinued preemptive treatment. Fifteen patients (29.4%) were enrolled in the second registration; nine were assigned to the WEAK group and six to the DOWN group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of grade ≥ 2 facial acneiform rash between the WEAK group (one patient, twice) and the DOWN group (one patient, twice; p = 0.8417). No patients developed severe facial acneiform rash within 10 weeks.

CONCLUSION

In NSCLC patients who received EGFRIs, preemptive therapy of oral minocycline and heparinoid moisturizer reduced facial acneiform rash incidence.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN000024113.

FOLFOXIRI plus Bevacizumab Versus FOLFOX plus Panitumumab for Metastatic Left-Sided RAS/BRAF Wild-Type Colorectal Cancer: Which "Side" Are You On?

This commentary focuses on the results of the study by Pietrantonio et al., which evaluated the clinical conundrum of triplet versus doublet chemotherapy in combination with targeted therapy for metastatic left-sided RAS/BRAF wild-type colorectal cancer and appears in this issue. Both FOLFOXIRI [fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan] plus bevacizumab and FOLFOX [fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin] plus panitumumab have shown impressive activity in this population; however, the two have not been directly compared. The article by Pietrantonio et al. presents a propensity score-adjusted analysis using information from five previous randomized trials and provides best available evidence comparing these regimens. This commentary will discuss their results and how their findings fit in current treatment paradigms.

Characterization and management of ERK inhibitor associated dermatologic adverse events: analysis from a nonrandomized trial of ulixertinib for advanced cancers

Background Ulixertinib is the first-in-class ERK1/2 kinase inhibitor with encouraging clinical activity in BRAF- and NRAS-mutant cancers. Dermatologic adverse events (dAEs) are common with ulixertinib, so management guidelines like those established for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor (EGFRi)-associated dAEs are needed. Patients and Methods This was an open-label, multicenter, phase I dose escalation and expansion trial of ulixertinib evaluating data from 135 patients with advanced malignancies enrolled between March 2013 and July 2017. Histopathological features, management, and dAEs in 34 patients are also reported. Twice daily oral ulixertinib was administered at 10 to 900 mg in the dose escalation cohort (n = 27) and at 600 mg in 21-day cycles in the expansion cohort (n = 108). Results The incidence of ulixertinib-induced dAEs and combined rash were 79% (107/135) and 76% (102/135). The most common dAEs included acneiform rash (45/135, 33%), maculopapular rash (36/135, 27%), and pruritus (34/135, 25%). Grade 3 dAEs were observed in 19% (25/135) of patients; no grade 4 or 5 dAEs were seen. The presence of at least 1 dAE was associated with stable disease (SD) or partial response (PR) (OR = 3.64, 95% CI 1.52-8.72; P = .003). Acneiform rash was associated with a PR (OR = 10.19, 95% CI 2.67-38.91; P < .001). Conclusion The clinical spectrum of ulixertinib-induced dAEs was similar to EGFR and MEK inhibitors; dAEs may serve as a surrogate marker of tumor response. We propose treatment algorithms for common ERK inhibitor-induced dAEs to maintain patients' quality of life and dose intensity for maximal clinical benefit. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT01781429.

A prospective phase II study of multimodal prophylactic treatment for afatinib-induced adverse events in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (Niigata Lung Cancer Treatment Group 1401)

Background

Afatinib has shown clinical benefits in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Many patients treated with afatinib experience skin or gastrointestinal toxicity. However, an effective management strategy has not been established. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of multimodal prophylactic treatment for afatinib-induced toxicity.

Methods

This single-arm prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of multimodal prophylactic treatment for afatinib-induced toxicity in patients with EGFR mutation positive advanced NSCLC who planned to receive a 40 mg dose of afatinib. Eligible patients were treated with oral loperamide (2 mg twice per day), prophylactic minocycline (100 mg once per day), topical medium-class steroids, and gargling with sodium azulene. The primary endpoint was the ability of prophylactic loperamide to prevent severe or intolerable diarrhea during the 4 weeks after the initial administration of afatinib. The incidence, severity and time to occurrence of diarrhea, rash, oral mucositis and paronychia were evaluated based on a daily patient questionnaire.

Results

Forty-six patients were enrolled. The primary endpoint analysis was performed in 35 patients as the per-protocol (PP) population. The 4-week successful prophylaxis rate for severe or intolerable diarrhea was 82.9% (90% confidence interval: 70.1–91.9%). In the total population, the incidences of grade 3 or higher rash, oral mucositis and paronychia within 4 weeks were 4%, 2% and 4%, respectively.

Conclusions

Prophylactic loperamide administration was not effective in preventing severe or intolerable diarrhea during afatinib treatment. Adequate dose reduction will be a better approach to manage afatinib-induced diarrhea. Multimodal prevention using minocycline, topical steroids and gargling with sodium azulene may be helpful to maintain compliance with afatinib treatment (UMIN000016167).

Prophylactic Topical Treatment for EGFR Inhibitor-Induced Papulopustular Rash: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

The incidence of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor (EGFRI)-induced papulopustular rash is 60-85%.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate prophylactic topical treatment for EGFRI-induced rash.

METHODS

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Adult cancer patients initiating treatment with EGFRIs were randomized to receive facial topical treatment with chloramphenicol 3% + prednisolone 0.5% (CHL-PRED) ointment, chloramphenicol 3% (CHL) ointment, or aqua cream (AQUA). The primary end points were the incidence of ≥grade 3 rash using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), on days 14 and 30. A subanalysis was conducted for incidence of a protocol-specified significant rash, defined as ≥10 facial papulopustular lesions.

RESULTS

The per-protocol analysis on day 14 included 69 patients, who received CHL-PRED (21), CHL (23), or AQUA (25). The incidence of CTCAE ≥grade 3 rash was not statistically significant between arms; however, the incidence of the protocol-specified significant rash was: CHL-PRED 14%, CHL 39%, and AQUA 48% (p = 0.03, CHL-PRED vs. AQUA). At 30 days, the CTCAE ≥grade 3 incidence was similar, but the incidences of protocol-specified significant rash were 6%, 16%, and 43% (p = 0.03, CHL-PRED vs. AQUA). No significant differences were found between CHL and CHL-PRED and between CHL and AQUA.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic topical CHL-PRED was efficacious when compared to AQUA, in the treatment of EGFRI-induced facial papulopustular rash.

rhEGF Treatment Improves EGFR Inhibitor-Induced Skin Barrier and Immune Defects

Simple Summary

In our prior study, we demonstrated that recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) treatment is effective for managing epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs)-related skin toxicities and improves patients’ quality of life (QoL) compared with placebo. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of rhEGF effects are unknown yet so basic study is needed to clarify the mechanisms. In this study, we revealed that treatment of rhEGF in human epidermal keratinocytes, 3d-cultured human skin tissue and patient lesions improved EGFRIs-induced skin eruption via normalizing proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, reducing inflammatory cytokines expression and inducing expression of AMPs. These findings provided an evidence for the use of rhEGF as a treatment for skin side effects derived from EGFRI.

Abstract

The mechanisms of epidermal growth factor (EGF) affecting EGF receptor inhibitor (EGFRI)-related skin toxicities are as yet unknown. We investigated which mechanisms are involved in EGF’s positive effects. Two types of EGFRIs, cetuximab and gefitinib, were used to treat the cells or 3d-cultured human skin tissue with recombinant human EGF (rhEGF). As a result, rhEGF increased EGFR and pEGFR expression. Furthermore, rhEGF induces EGFR signaling by pAKT and pPI3K expression in gefitinib and rhEGF co-treated cells. In addition, rhEGF bound to EGFR after than cetuximab, but cetuximab bound to EGFR more strongly than rhEGF. Moreover, expressions of proliferation and differentiation proteins, both ki-67 and filaggrin, were decreased in EGFRI-treated tissue. However, in rhEGF and EGFRI co-treated tissue, those expressions were increased. Expression of IL-1α, IL-8, and TNF-α was increased by EGFRIs and down-regulated by rhEGF. Furthermore, hBD-2 and hBD-3 protein expressions were inhibited by cetuximab or gefitinib treatment, and those decrements were increased by rhEGF treatment. In patients’ tissue evaluation, compared with controls, patients’ Ki-67 and EGFR expression were decreased (p = 0.015, p = 0.001). Patients’ IL-17 and TNF-α expression intensity was higher than that of the control group (p = 0.038, p = 0.037). After treatment with EGF ointment, average values of Ki-67, EGFR, and Melan-A were changed to normal values. Oppositely, patients’ proportions of IL-17 and TNF-α were decreased to low stain level. In conclusion, treatment of rhEGF improved EGFRI-induced skin eruption via normalizing the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, reducing inflammatory cytokines by the affected EGFRIs.

Gefitinib-Induced Cutaneous Toxicities in Brown Norway Rats Are Associated with Macrophage Infiltration

Gefitinib (Iressa), is a selective epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), used in the targeted treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Skin toxicity is the major adverse effect observed in patients treated with EGFR-targeted TKIs such as gefitinib and erlotinib. To date, a corresponding skin animal model has not been established to address the mechanisms of these effects. Therefore, we analyzed the skin rash phenotype and its pathological features in Brown Norway (BN) rats treated with gefitinib 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg, or 10 mg/100 g/day for 4 weeks. We found that treatment with gefitinib led to weight loss, rash, itching, and hair loss in a dose-dependent manner. We also investigated the skin pathology and found that the animal model showed thickening of the epidermis, loss of moisture, and apoptosis of keratinocytes. Immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and analysis of monocytes and leukocytes in the blood revealed increased macrophage infiltration was associated with the cutaneous toxicities induced by gefitinib in the BN rats. Finally, we found that gefitinib-induced cutaneous toxicity is significantly associated with three inflammatory cytokines known to be secreted by activated macrophages, TREM-1, CINC-2, and CINC-3.

Targeted Therapy- and Chemotherapy-Associated Skin Toxicities: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

Preventing and managing skin toxicities can minimize treatment disruptions and improve well-being. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for the prevention and management of cancer treatment-related skin toxicities.

LITERATURE SEARCH

The authors systematically searched for comparative studies published before April 1, 2019. Study selection and appraisal were conducted by pairs of independent reviewers.

DATA EVALUATION

The random-effects model was used to conduct meta-analysis when appropriate.

SYNTHESIS

39 studies (6,006 patients) were included; 16 of those provided data for meta-analysis. Prophylactic minocycline reduced the development of all-grade and grade 1 acneform rash in patients who received erlotinib. Prophylaxis with pyridoxine 400 mg in capecitabine-treated patients lowered the risk of grade 2 or 3 hand-foot syndrome. Several treatments for hand-foot skin reaction suggested benefit in heterogeneous studies. Scalp cooling significantly reduced the risk for severe hair loss or total alopecia associated with chemotherapy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Certainty in the available evidence was limited for several interventions, suggesting the need for future research.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL CAN BE FOUND AT&NBSP;HTTPS

//onf.ons.org/supplementary-material-targeted-therapy-and-chemotherapy-associated-skin-toxicity-systematic-review.

ONS Guidelines™ for Cancer Treatment-Related Skin Toxicity

BACKGROUND

Management of cancer treatment-related skin toxicities can minimize treatment disruptions and improve patient well-being.

OBJECTIVES

This guideline aims to support patients and clinicians in decisions regarding management of cancer treatment-related skin toxicities.

METHODS

A panel developed a guideline for management of cancer treatment-related skin toxicities using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) for certainty of evidence and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine criteria for trustworthy guidelines. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool assessed risk of bias. A quantitative or narrative synthesis of the evidence was completed.

RESULTS

The panel issued seven conditional recommendations for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor rash, hand-foot skin reaction, hand-foot syndrome, and chemotherapy-induced alopecia. The panel suggested strategies for prevention and treatment for all toxicities except hand-foot syndrome, which only has a prevention recommendation.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Cancer treatment-related skin toxicities can significantly affect quality of life. Incorporation of these interventions into clinical care can improve patient outcomes.

SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL CAN BE FOUND AT&NBSP;HTTPS

//onf.ons.org/supplementary-material-ons-guidelines-cancer-treatment-related-skin-toxicity.

Minocycline prevents and repairs the skin disorder associated with afatinib, one of the epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer

Background

While epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) exert a breakthrough effect, the incidence of skin disorders as a side effect has significantly reduced patients’ quality of life. This study aimed to develop a treatment for inflammatory ulcers as one of the side effects of afatinib (Giotrif®), a second-generation EGFR-TKI, and established a skin disorder mouse model to investigate the protective effect of minocycline.

Methods

First, under inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane, the back of a male ddy mouse was shaved, and afatinib petrolatum was applied alone or in combination with minocycline to observe the state of the skin and measure transepidermal water transpiration (TEWL). Next, afatinib was administered orally to mice, and minocycline petrolatum was applied to observe whether the skin disorder was prevented and its effect on repair of the skin disorder.

Results

Skin injury occurred on the back of the mouse following afatinib (1 mg/g in petrolatum) application, and scab formation was observed. Application of minocycline prevented and improved the skin disorder caused by afatinib. When the minocycline-petrolatum mixture was applied to the mouse that developed the skin disorder, a significant improvement in TEWL was observed, and skin repair was observed macroscopically.

Conclusions

These results suggest that minocycline petrolatum applied locally prevents and repairs afatinib-induced skin disorders of non-small cell lung cancer patients. Histological examination of skin has provided insights into the mechanism of the occurrence of afatinib-related skin disorder and suggested the efficacy of minocycline topical application in clinical practice.

Patient Experience Captured by Quality-of-Life Measurement in Oncology Clinical Trials

IMPORTANCE

Quality of life (QoL) is an important consideration in cancer medicine, especially because drugs are becoming more costly and may only result in modest gains in overall survival. However, there has been no descriptive analysis for the points at which QoL is measured in cancer trials.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of studies that measure QoL at different points and see how many studies measure QoL for the entirety of a patient's life.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cross-sectional analysis includes all articles on oncology clinical trials in the 3 highest-impact oncology journals, published between July 2015 and June 2018, that reported QoL outcomes.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Data were abstracted on when QoL was assessed and the characteristics of these studies.

RESULTS

For all 149 studies that met inclusion criteria, QoL assessment was high during treatment (104 articles [69.8%]), during follow-up (81 articles [54.4%]), and after the end of the intervention (68 articles [45.6%]). In 5 of the 149 studies (3.4%), QoL was assessed until death, including in only 1 of the 74 studies on metastatic or incurable cancers. Among these 5 studies, only 1 (20%) used a drug intervention, 1 (20%) used a behavioral intervention, and 2 (40%) used a radiation intervention; only 1 of 5 was in the metastatic setting. The number of studies that reported a positive QoL outcome (ie, QoL outcome was more favorable in the intervention group than in the control group) was between 42 of 81 articles (51.9%) and 16 of 28 articles (57.1%) for most QoL assessment points but only 1 of 5 articles (20%) for studies measuring QoL until death.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study found that most clinical trials assessed QoL during the treatment or intervention and often during a given amount of follow-up but infrequently assessed QoL on disease progression and rarely followed QoL until the end of the patient's life. Most studies reporting QoL until the end of life reported worse QoL outcomes for the intervention group than the control group. Future research and policy recommendations should consider not just short-term QoL outcomes but QoL outcomes throughout the patient's cancer care.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Epidermal Growth Factor Ointment for Treating Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor-Induced Skin Toxicities

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic cancer (PC), or colorectal cancer (CRC) has been demonstrated. However, dermatological reactions to these inhibitors can cause significant physical and psychosocial discomfort. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of EGF ointment for EGFR inhibitor-related skin adverse events (ERSEs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter, pilot phase III trial enrolled patients with NSCLC, PC, or CRC treated with EGFR inhibitors. Patients with grade ≥2 ERSEs were included. Patients were randomized to three treatment arms: arm 1, placebo; arm 2, 1 ppm of EGF ointment; and arm 3, 20 ppm of EGF ointment. Patients applied ointment to their skin lesions twice daily.

RESULTS

Efficacy evaluation was available for 80 patients (9 for PC, 28 for NSCLC, and 43 for CRC). Responses were 44.4% in arm 1, 61.5% in arm 2, and 77.8% in arm 3. There was a linear correlation between EGF concentrations and responses (p = .012). Quality of life (QoL) was assessed for 74 patients. Maximum changes in composite scores by Skindex-16 after treatment were significantly different among arms (mean ± SD: -5.2 ± 8.6 for arm 1, -11.7 ± 14.2 for arm 2, and - 18.6 ± 17.7 for arm 3; p = .008). EGF arms showed significant improvement in emotions (p = .005) and functioning (p = .044) scores over the placebo arm.

CONCLUSION

EGF ointment is effective for managing ERSEs. It can also improve patients' QoL compared with placebo. Clinical trial identification number. NCT02284139 IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Patients with non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, or colorectal cancer who are treated with epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) inhibitors may experience dermatologic reactions to their treatment. This study investigated the benefit of an EGF ointment in the treatment of these adverse events and observed the ointment to be effective in managing EGFR inhibitor-related skin adverse events.

Minocycline for symptom reduction during radiation therapy for head and neck cancer: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

Local/systemic symptoms during cancer therapy may be exacerbated by dysregulated inflammation and its downstream toxic effects. Minocycline can suppress proinflammatory cytokine release; therefore, we investigated its potential to reduce patient-reported symptom severity during radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC).

METHODS

Eligible patients for this blinded, placebo-controlled trial were adults with T0-3, N-any, and M0 HNC receiving single-modality RT. Participants were randomized 1:1 to either minocycline (200 mg/day) or placebo during RT. The primary endpoint was the area under the curve (AUC) of 5 prespecified symptoms (pain, fatigue, disturbed sleep, poor appetite, difficulty swallowing/chewing) during RT, assessed with the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory for HNC (MDASI-HN).

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 20 evaluable patients per arm. Overall, 75% had oropharyngeal cancer and 78% were male. No grade 3+ adverse events potentially related to study medication were observed. Two minocycline patients required a feeding tube during RT vs 5 placebo patients (P = 0.21). The average daily AUC during RT for the 5 MDASI-HN symptoms was 3.1 (SD = 1.0) for minocycline and 3.7 (SD = 1.7) for placebo (P = 0.16); the 0.37 effect size was less than our 0.70 target. AUC comparisons for several individual symptoms and symptom interference favored minocycline but were not statistically significant. The greatest numerical differences occurred for systemic symptoms, larger toward treatment end, and in early post-RT recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Minocycline was feasible, well tolerated, and achieved a positive signal toward reducing patient-reported symptom severity during RT for HNC, particularly for systemic symptoms. This justifies additional study and informs future trial design.

Polymorphisms of NF-κB pathway genes influence adverse drug reactions of gefitinib in NSCLC patients

Gefitinib is a widely used targeted therapeutic drug in East Asian non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. This research retrospectively investigated the relationship between the polymorphisms of genes involved in NF-κB pathways and gefitinib-related Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs). From 2011 to 2016, 109 NSCLC patients were enrolled in this study. Thirty-two SNPs of 15 genes were genotyped with a Sequenom MassARRAY system. We collected 34 paired RNA samples before and after gefitinib administration for the detection of whole blood RNA expression of genes in NF-κB pathways (NFKBIA, NFKB1, NFKB2, RELA, RELB, and TNFAIP3). IKBKB rs2272733 (CC vs non-CC: OR = 0.256, 95% CI 0.087-0.753, P = 0.013) and IKBKE rs12142086 (CC vs non-CC: OR = 3.640, 95% CI 1.320-10.039, P = 0.013) were significantly associated with gefitinib-induced skin toxicity. IKBKE rs2151222 was associated with diarrhea with the odds ratio of non-TT vs TT as 0.162 (non-TT vs TT: 95% CI 0.034-0.775, P = 0.023). Furthermore, RELA rs11227247 was a predictor for hepatic toxicity (GG vs non-GG: OR = 0.212, 95% CI 0.062-0.726, P = 0.013). None of the gene expression levels after drug administration were determined to be significant predictors for adverse drug reactions by a logistics regression analysis. Polymorphisms of IKBKB, IKBKE, and RELA are potential biomarkers for predicting gefitinib-related ADRs. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms for diagnostic and prophylactic therapy applications.

Minocycline Reduces Chemoradiation-Related Symptom Burden in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Phase 2 Randomized Trial

PURPOSE

In patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CRT) exacerbates a cluster of difficult-to-manage symptoms, especially cancer-related fatigue. Minocycline is a readily available, low-cost antibiotic with antiinflammatory properties. We conducted a phase 2 randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to investigate the effect of minocycline in reducing CRT-symptom burden in NSCLC.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients with NSCLC scheduled to receive CRT provided consent and were randomized to receive either minocycline (100 mg twice daily) or a matching placebo during 6 to 7 weeks of CRT. Patient-reported fatigue and other symptoms were assessed on MD Anderson Symptom Inventory weekly from the start of CRT for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was 12-week (±2 days) area under the curve for symptom burden, which was compared between treatment groups.

RESULTS

Forty of 49 enrolled patients (80%) were evaluable (19 on minocycline and 21 on placebo). There were no grade 3 + adverse events related to the study medication. Fatigue was significantly reduced in the minocycline group compared with placebo group during the 12-week trial period (area under the curve = 31.2 ± 14.2 vs 45.0 ± 20.9, P = .011), with a large effect size (Cohen's d = 0.77). Pain (Cohen's d = 0.54) and shortness of breath (Cohen's d = 0.55) were also significantly reduced in the minocycline group (all P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Minocycline during CRT for NSCLC was feasible, had a low toxicity profile, and yielded a clinically and statistically significant positive signal in reducing symptom burden related to NSCLC and CRT. This study is a proof of concept so a larger trial in CRT patients is warranted.

Afatinib Therapy: Practical Management of Adverse Events With an Oral Agent for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment

BACKGROUND

Afatinib is an oral, irreversible ErbB family blocker indicated for first-line treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with non-resistant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Afatinib is also approved for the treatment of metastatic squamous NSCLC following progression on platinum-based chemotherapy. Common afatinib-associated toxicities include gastrointestinal and dermatologic events, which can be dose limiting.

OBJECTIVES

In this review, the authors describe clinical trial experiences with afatinib, as well as best practices and practical approaches to the management of afatinib-associated adverse events in EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC.

METHODS

Safety and tolerability data from phase 3 trials of afatinib were reviewed, together with real-life experiences from the authors' clinical practices.

FINDINGS

Patient education, combined with early assessment and effective management of afatinib-related adverse events as well as dose- reduction strategies, allows patients to continue treatment and maximize the clinical benefits of afatinib.

Safety and Tolerability of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Oncology

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that target epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have dramatically improved progression-free survival in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who carry sensitizing EGFR-activating mutations and in patients with breast and pancreatic cancers. However, EGFR-TKIs are associated with significant and disabling undesirable effects that adversely impact on quality of life and compliance. These effects include dermatological reactions, diarrhoea, hepatotoxicity, stomatitis, interstitial lung disease and ocular toxicity. Each individual EGFR-TKI is also associated with additional adverse effect(s) that are not shared widely by the other members of its class. Often, these effects call for dose reduction, treatment discontinuation or pharmacotherapeutic intervention. Since dermatological effects result from on-target effects on wild-type EGFR, rash is often considered to be a biomarker of efficacy. A number of studies have reported better outcomes in patients with skin reactions compared with those without. This has led to a 'dosing-to-rash' strategy to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Although conceptually attractive, there is currently insufficient evidence-based support for this strategy. While skin reactions following EGFR-TKIs are believed to result from an effect on wild-type EGFR, their efficacy is related to effects on mutant variants of EGFR. It is noteworthy that newer EGFR-TKIs that spare wild-type EGFR are associated with fewer dermatological reactions. Furthermore, secondary mutations such as T790M in exon 20 often lead to development of resistance to the clinical activity and efficacy of first- and second-generation EGFR-TKIs. This has stimulated the search for later-generations of EGFR-TKIs with the ability to overcome this resistance and with greater target selectivity to spare wild-type EGFR in expectations of an improved safety profile. However, available data reviewed herein indicate that not only are these newer agents associated with the aforementioned adverse effects typical of earlier agents, but they are also susceptible to resistance due to tertiary mutations, most frequently C797S. At least three later-generation EGFR-TKIs, canertinib, naquotinib and rociletinib, have been discontinued from further development in NSCLC following concerns about their safety and risk/benefit.

Pulsed-dye laser as an adjuvant treatment for papulopustular eruptions from epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, a randomized blinded split-faced controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the efficacy of pulsed-dye laser (PDL) as an adjunctive treatment for facial papulopustular eruptions from EGFR inhibitors (EGFRi).

METHODS

Fourteen patients with facial acneiform eruptions were recruited. Half side of the face was randomized to receive PDL treatment while the other side served as a control. The treatments were delivered every 2 weeks for 4 sessions. The patients were seen at baseline, weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10. Erythema index (EI) measured by colorimeter, the papulopustular lesion count and physician global assessment (PGA) were obtained. Patients were allowed to use their standard treatments for their eruptions.

RESULTS

Both arms had a significant decrease in EI from baseline at each subsequent visit. In the laser treated side, the mean (95%CI) EI decreased from 23.5 (22.24-24.76) at baseline to 16.3 (15.01-17.59) at week 10, while those of the sham were 23.49 (22.23-24.75) to 20.51 (19.22-21.8), respectively. The mean change was significantly lower in the PDL arm from week 4 onwards. The lesion counts in both groups also decreased significantly, but the mean difference between the arms was not different. PGA scores followed the same pattern as EI.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjunctive treatment with PDL was a safe and effective treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Management of common adverse events related to first-line dacomitinib use in EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer: a pooled safety analysis

Aim: This pooled safety analysis was conducted to analyze incidence and management of key dacomitinib-associated adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Patients & methods: Patients with EGFR mutation-positive advanced non-small-cell lung cancer who received first-line dacomitinib at the 45 mg/day recommended starting dose were included. ADRs were identified based on reasonable association with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Results: Overall, 251/255 patients (98%) experienced ADRs. The most common were diarrhea, rash, stomatitis, nail disorder and dry skin. Dose interruptions and dose reductions were reported in 47 and 52% of patients, respectively. Fewer grade 3 key ADRs were observed following dose reductions. Conclusion: Dacomitinib was generally tolerable. Most reported ADRs were known to be associated with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors and were managed with standard medical management and dose modifications.

Prophylaxis and Management of Skin Toxicities

Skin toxicity is a common problem not only when treating breast cancer but in all cancer types. Visible on the surface, these side effects come not just with burdening symptoms but also with stigmatization. With increasing diversity in therapeutic options, dermatologic side effects are also becoming increasingly complex and more challenging for the clinician. We reviewed the most common dermatologic side effects of current anticancer therapy, including toxicity induced by chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. In particular, we focus on xerosis and pruritus, (acneiform) exanthema, hand-foot syndrome, nail toxicities, alopecia, and mucositis. We propose measures for the prevention and management of these side effects based on current literature. With high incidences in both chemotherapy and targeted therapy, prophylactic measures are crucial to reducing the incidence and severity of skin toxicity and therefore key to therapy adherence. Appropriate management of these toxicities will help avoid unnecessary treatment discontinuation.

Update review of skin adverse events during treatment of lung cancer and colorectal carcinoma with epidermal growth receptor factor inhibitors

The past decades have witnessed a rapid increase in the use of molecularly targeted therapies. One class of agents includes the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs), which afford patients longer progression-free survival (PFS) times, especially among non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and metastatic colorectal carcinoma (mCRC). Certain adverse effects, particularly skin toxicity, are mainly manifested as rash, xerosis, pruritus, nails changes, hair changes and mucositis. Previous studies reported the adverse events occurred based on the cutaneous inflammation reaction. Treatment recommended glucocorticoids and antibiotics. It is suggested that skin toxicity is an important issue because it usually affects patients' quality of life (QoL) and still causes dose reduction or discontinuation of targeted therapies. For these reasons, more and more oncologists and dermatologists recognize the importance of recognition and management of skin toxicities with the expansion in availability of EGFRIs. In this review, we conducted a systematic review of recent data to examine the types and frequencies of dermatologic toxicities associated with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapies in NSCLC and mCRC. In addition, we would like to explore the management and treatment options currently used by clinicians based on the possible mechanism.

Pruritus Associated with Targeted Anticancer Therapies and Their Management

Targeted anticancer therapies have significantly increased the survival of patients with a variety of malignancies, improving tolerability and treatment duration. The increased lifespan and the expanded use of targeted agents have led to a variety of treatment-related adverse events. Pruritus, a common dermatologic adverse event with various incidences ranging from 2.2% to 47% across different categories of targeted anticancer therapies, has been overlooked. This article reviews the incidence, accompanying skin conditions, possible pathomechanism, and proposed management algorithms of pruritus associated with targeted therapies, including immunotherapies.

Team Management of Skin Rash Associated with Use of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a rash team management intervention designed by certified nurses, medical physicians, and certified pharmacists. The quality of life (QOL) of patients administered epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) was assessed using the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) and Skindex-29 QOL questionnaires.

Methods:

A total of 51 patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer who were treated using EGFR-TKIs were examined between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015, at the Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation in Kobe city, Japan. All the patients were treated daily with erlotinib, gefitinib, or afatinib. The common terminology criteria for adverse events (version 4.0) system were used to grade treatment-induced toxicity events. The multimodality rash management team included nurses, pharmacists, and physicians. The team intervened before the initiation of treatment with EGFR-TKIs and at every visit. Patient QOL characteristics were evaluated using the DLQI and Skindex-29 assessment tools.

Results:

The number of patients with high-grade toxicity decreased when the multimodal approach was used. No grade 3 skin toxicities were recorded in the postintervention cohort. QOL scores for symptoms and feelings (emotions) were impaired in patients who were treated with EGFR-TKIs.

Conclusions:

The rash team management approach may be useful for patients treated with EGFR-TKIs. Specific QOL evaluation tools for the assessment of the effects of a team approach for rash management should be developed.

Multi-disciplinary proactive follow-up algorithm for patients with advanced NSCLC receiving afatinib

PURPOSE

Afatinib is a standard first-line therapy for advanced EGFR-positive NSCLC. We implemented a pharmacist-led proactive follow-up algorithm to identify and manage early afatinib-related adverse events (AEs).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients treated with afatinib after implementation of the algorithm at the Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre (Toronto, ON, Canada) from April 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016. Our in-house algorithm involved consultations in person and proactive pharmacist-led callbacks on days 5, 10, and 17. All AEs were graded and documented in real time and management based on toxicity grade was standardized. This study evaluated the impact of our algorithm on real-world AEs.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Thirty-three patients were identified and reviewed. Median follow-up was 248 days. All patients experienced at least one drug-related AE; 18.2% were grade 3/4. The most common AEs were diarrhea 87.9%, rash 81.8%, stomatitis 57.6%, and paronychia 45.5%. Median dose of afatinib was 40 mg daily; 51.5% of patients had ≥ 1 dose reduction and 6.3% discontinued afatinib due to AEs. Proactive calls by the pharmacist identified 36.5% of all drug-related AEs, 33.3% of grade 3/4 AEs, 58.1% of first drug-related AEs and identified two patients that were non-compliant. Only 3.2% of AEs were identified by an emergency room/urgent clinic visit.

CONCLUSIONS

This proactive multi-disciplinary AE management algorithm resulted in a low rate of urgent assessments and discontinuation due to toxicity while maintaining afatinib at ideal dose, thus providing a useful tool for centers prescribing afatinib.

A survey of patient and physician acceptance of skin toxicities from anti-epidermal growth factor receptor therapies

BACKGROUND

Inhibition of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) extends patient survival in multiple tumor types. Skin toxicities are the most common adverse event (AE) elicited by EGFR inhibitors. Here, we provide deeper insights into patients' and physicians' acceptance of the risk/benefit trade-offs of skin toxicities during cancer therapy, including comparison of their perceptions and experiences with dermatologic AEs.

METHODS

A multinational survey of 195 patients and 120 physicians was conducted to gauge attitudes regarding skin toxicities as an AE during cancer therapy.

RESULTS

Skin toxicities were identified by patients and physicians as the AE that is most discouraging to patients when undergoing cancer therapies. Skin toxicities were cited as causing pain, impairing quality of life, and proving difficult to manage. Despite these negative influences, the majority of patients (71%) indicated they were willing to accept skin toxicities as an AE of an effective therapy. Indeed, the majority of patients and physicians preferred a more effective therapy that induces more severe skin toxicities than a less efficacious therapy that induces less severe skin toxicities; interestingly, patients were willing to accept a higher likelihood of severe skin toxicities than physicians.

CONCLUSION

In this examination of patients' perspectives, we found that patients were willing to accept skin toxicities if they were the anticipated byproduct of a more effective therapeutic regimen. Important differences were observed between patients' and physicians' attitudes regarding risk/benefit trade-offs during cancer therapy, suggesting that patient's considerations and shared decision-making are key to cancer care.

Clinical impact of minocycline on afatinib-related rash in patients with non-small cell lung cancer harboring epidermal growth factor receptor mutations

BACKGROUND

The management of skin toxicity is crucial for efficient afatinib treatment, but the role of tetracycline class antibiotics (TCs) in managing these rashes is relatively unknown.

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical records of patients who were administered afatinib for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer harboring epidermal growth factor receptor mutations between October 2014 and November 2016. Twenty-five patients, who received TCs for the management of afatinib-related skin disorders, were enrolled.

RESULTS

Minocycline was administered orally to participants. Afatinib-related toxic effects, such as rash, diarrhea, and paronychia, were observed in 92%, 92%, and 40% of cases, respectively. Although 24% of diarrhea and 4% of paronychia cases were rated grade 3 or higher, no severe cases of rash were observed during afatinib treatment. Of the 18 afatinib dose reductions, 14 (78%), three (17%), and one (6%) resulted from diarrhea, paronychia, and stomatitis, respectively; no patients required a dose reduction because of rash. When minocycline treatment started, 21 patients (84%) had a rash of grade 1 or less, and three patients had a grade 2 rash. A response to afatinib was observed in 18 patients (72%) and the median duration of afatinib administration was 501 days. An adverse event related to minocycline (grade 1 nausea) was observed in one patient.

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of the study patients started minocycline before grade 2 rash development and the severity of afatinib-related rash was lower than that previously reported. Oral TCs may be beneficial, especially if started early.

Preventive effect of kampo medicine (hangeshashin-to, TJ-14) plus minocycline against afatinib-induced diarrhea and skin rash in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Purpose

Diarrhea and oral mucositis induced by afatinib can cause devastating quality of life issues for patients undergoing afatinib treatment. Several studies have shown that hangeshashin-to (TJ-14) might be useful for chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and oral mucositis. In this study, we investigated the prophylactic effects of TJ-14 for afatinib-induced diarrhea and oral mucositis and minocycline for afatinib-induced skin rash.

Patients and methods

First- and second-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors have become the standard first-line treatment in patients with EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. The incidence of diarrhea was higher with afatinib than with gefitinib, and we conducted a single-arm Phase II study with afatinib. Patients who had previously undergone treatment with afatinib were ineligible. Both TJ-14 (7.5 g/day) and minocycline (100 mg/day) were administered simultaneously from the start of afatinib administration. The primary end point was the incidence of ≥ grade 3 (G3) diarrhea (increase of ≥7 stools/day over baseline) during the first 4 weeks of treatment. The secondary end points were the incidence of ≥ G3 oral mucositis (severe pain interfering with oral intake) and $ G3 skin toxicity (severe or medically significant but not immediately life-threatening).

Results

A total of 29 patients (nine men and 20 women; median age, 66 years; performance status, 0/1/2: 18/10/1) were enrolled from four centers. Four patients had undergone prior treatment with chemotherapy, including gefitinib or erlotinib. In all, 20 (68.9%) patients and one (3.4%) patient had diarrhea of any grade and ≥ G3, respectively. One (3.4%) patient had ≥ G3 oral mucositis; no patients had ≥ G3 skin rash. A total of 18 (62%) of the 29 patients achieved a partial response.

Conclusion

The present study indicated a trend in which TJ-14 reduced the risk of afatinib-induced diarrhea and minocycline reduced the risk of afatinib-induced skin rash.

AIO LQ-0110: a randomized phase II trial comparing oral doxycycline versus local administration of erythromycin as preemptive treatment strategies of panitumumab-mediated skin toxicity in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

Background

Dermatologic toxicities, especially akne-like skin rash, are the most common side-effects associated with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy. Preemptive treatment with oral tetracyclines is recommended as a standard. Topical prophylactic options have thus far not been compared to tetracyclines. In the current study, we sought to establish an alternative topical treatment.

Patients and methods

In this multicentre, randomized, open-label phase II study patients with (K)Ras-wildtype colorectal cancer receiving panitumumab were randomized (1:1) to receive either doxycycline 100 mg b.i.d. (standard arm) or erythromycin ointment 2% followed by doxycycline in case of insufficient activity. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients developing no skin toxicity ≥ grade 2 at any time during the first 8 weeks of panitumumab treatment. Skin toxicity was assessed using the NCI CTCAE v 4.0. Secondary endpoints comprised the assessment of skin toxicity using a more thorough grading system (WoMo score), evaluation of skin-related (DLQI) and global quality of life (EORTC QLQ C30).

Results

In total, 88 patients were included in this trial. 69% of the patients in the erythromycin arm suffered from skin toxicity of grade ≥ 2 versus 63% in the standard arm (P = n.s.). However, as per WoMo score significantly more patients in the erythromycin arm developed moderate or severe skin toxicity at earlier time points. Skin related and overall quality of life was comparable between both arms.

Conclusions

Based on this data erythromycin cannot be regarded as an alternative to doxycycline as prevention of EGFR-related skin toxicity.