A qualitative study of the ramifications of rash from epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors

Psychooncology. 2011 Nov;20(11):1246-9. doi: 10.1002/pon.1847. Epub 2010 Sep 23.

Abstract

Objective: Over 50% of cancer patients who are treated with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors develop a papulopustular rash that involves the face, neck, and upper torso. However, because relatively few previous reports have focused on the full ramifications of this drug-induced side effect, this qualitative study was undertaken.

Methods: Fifteen patients who had either an active or previous rash from these agents participated in scripted interviews. All interviews were transcribed and examined by means of a qualitative methodologic approach.

Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) actual physical discomfort was associated with the rash; (2) patients were concerned about their appearance; (3) despite initial denial, patients did suffer social isolation; and (4) high medical morbidity was associated with the rash. Patients voiced concerns such as: (1) 'Especially when I try to sleep, I can feel the itch and burn all over…'; (2) 'My face looks so bad that if I go to see my friends and they say, 'What happened to you.' I am self conscious about that'; (3) 'I just told them they would be better off just calling me, don't come visit…'; and (4) 'I went to the hospital for my face…they made a bandage to put all over [my] face…. [I] just had a little nose hole, a mouth hole and holes for…eyes.'.

Conclusion: Rash from EGFR inhibitors can have a major negative impact upon cancer patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Exanthema / chemically induced*
  • Exanthema / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / psychology

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors