Cutaneous Adverse Events of Targeted Therapies and Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients with Melanoma

Abstract

Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have markedly improved prognosis of advanced melanoma patients. With expanded use of these drugs, a range of cutaneous adverse events has emerged. Although the vast majority of adverse events are low-grade, they many cause significant morbidity and can affect patients' quality of life. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention may prevent unnecessary discontinuation of life-saving anticancer therapies. In this article, we review the cutaneous adverse events of small molecules and monoclonal antibodies used for the therapy of melanoma and discuss their pathophysiology and recommendations for prevention and management of these adverse events.

Keywords

• Melanoma
• Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
• Immunotherapy/adverse effects
• Molecular Targeted Therapy
• Skin/ drug effects