Cutaneous Reactions Following Anticancer Drug Therapy in a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Introduction: Cutaneous reactions are dermatological abnormalities that can occur after anticancer drug therapy in cancer patients. Cutaneous reactions can range from mild dermatological disorders to life-threatening medical conditions and may worsen a patient's quality of life. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of cutaneous reactions following anticancer drug therapy in a tertiary care centre. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among cancer patients following anticancer therapy in the outpatient department of dermatology of a tertiary care centre between 1 October 2021 to 30 December 2022. Convenience sampling was done. The point estimate was calculated at a 95% Confidence Interval. Results: Among 3,288 patients, the prevalence of cutaneous reactions following anticancer drug therapy was seen in 73 (2.22%) cancer patients. The mean age was found to be 49.42±1.45 years. Anagen effluvium was the frequently observed cutaneous reaction (30.10%) followed by palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (19.94%). Conclusions: The prevalence of cutaneous reactions following anticancer drug therapy among cancer patients was found to be lower as compared to the studies conducted in similar settings. An interdisciplinary approach is required to identify cutaneous reactions to anticancer therapy and to navigate change in the treatment plan.

Keywords

• cancer
• chemotherapy
• skin