Tufted hair folliculitis in a woman treated with trastuzumab

Target Oncol. 2010 Dec;5(4):295-6. doi: 10.1007/s11523-010-0162-5. Epub 2010 Oct 15.

Abstract

Chemotherapeutic agents targeting the human epidermal receptor (HER) family are being used with increasing frequency for a variety of solid tumors. Cutaneous side effects are commonly reported with HER inhibitors, especially those agents that inhibit epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or HER1. However, inhibitors of HER2 are not associated with specific skin toxicity. We present a case of tufted hair folliculitis, an inflammatory scalp condition causing scaling and pruritus, in a woman being treated with trastuzumab, a selective HER2 inhibitor. This finding has not previously been reported as a side effect of trastuzumab therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Alopecia / chemically induced
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Folliculitis / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Trastuzumab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Trastuzumab