Acute and long-term dermatologic adverse events are experienced by both patients and survivors alike. Despite documentation of more than 50 distinct dermatologic toxicities in association with at least 30 anti-cancer agents, dermatologic adverse events are often underreported or overlooked. Supportive oncologic dermatology bridges gaps in communication by fostering collaboration among oncologists, dermatologists, nurses, and other supporting professionals to ease the burden of dermatologic toxicities on patients and improve treatment adherence and patient outcomes.
The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) provides resources to refine strategies for assessing, preventing, and managing dermatologic toxicities, emphasizing timely evaluation, clinical advancements, and overall care management to improve patient outcomes.
Dermatologic toxicities are adverse events (AEs) that involve the skin, hair, or nails and are associated with antineoplastic treatment. These can cause significant discomfort, emotional distress, and, in severe cases, serious harm or treatment disruption. This guide reviews common dermatologic toxicities associated with cancer treatments, opportunities for prevention, and management.
In this episode of CANCER BUZZ, Allison Gordon, MD, discusses the dermatologic toxicities associated with breast cancer treatment, explores preventive measures that oncologists can implement early in the treatment course and offers alternative resources when an oncodermatologist referral is not feasible.
