Capecitabine-induced activation of actinic keratosis: A common but underrecognized adverse event

Abstract

We report a case of a 70-year-old woman undergoing chemotherapy with capecitabine for breast cancer who presented with a diffuse erythematous facial eruption, consistent with actinic keratosis activation. The emergence of subclinical actinic keratosis with capecitabine treatment is most likely due to this medication being a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil, a commonly used topical treatment for actinic keratosis. Since this adverse reaction is usually self-resolving and can be easily treated, chemotherapy cessation is usually not recommended. Awareness and prompt recognition of this potential adverse effect of capecitabine can prevent discontinuation or delay of chemotherapy.

Keywords

• Capecitabine
• Actinic keratosis
• 5-fluorouracil
• Adverse event
• Chemotherapy