A Commentary on the “Duration of Oral Antibiotics Administration for Cetuximab-Induced Acneiform Eruption”

Abstract

Acneiform eruption is a devastating cutaneous side effect of cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody used to treat a variety of cancers. Despite its effectiveness, many patients avoid or discontinue it after experiencing its dermatological side effects as it negatively impacts their quality of life (QoL). This displays the immense need for multidisciplinary collaboration to prevent and treat cetuximab-induced acneiform eruption (CIAE). Prevention methods include, but are not limited to, education, skin care routines, and prophylactic drugs. The following measures reduce the likelihood of developing CIAE and decrease its severity, making it easier to treat if it were to occur. Ongoing research on the treatment of CIAE continues. Of these treatments, oral tetracyclines and systemic corticosteroids have been shown to be the most effective by far. This commentary aims to evaluate the study by Park et al. [Dermatology. 2021;237(3):457–63], further elaborate on prevention and treatment measures of CIAE, and highlight the implications of CIAE on a patient’s QoL.