Preemptive Skin Care Before Panitumumab Therapy

Monoclonal antibodies such as cetuximab and panitumumab, which target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), have single-agent activity in KRAS wild-type colorectal cancer. When these agents are added to chemotherapy in first- and second-line treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, response rates improve and progression-free survival is prolonged (JW Oncol Hematol May 19 2009 and JW Physician's First Watch Sep 28 2006). Skin toxicities — most notably papular and pustular rash, pruritus, dry skin, and painful nail-bed changes — commonly follow treatment with EGFR inhibitors and often necessitate dose delays and occasional discontinuation of therapy.

Investigators now report results of a trial in which 95 patients who we…