Side effects of targeted biological therapies

Question 1

EGFR inhibitors

Answer 1

Cetuximab - Skin, Lung, and Kidney

Skin, hair, and nails

• Papulopustular or acneiform rashes after 10 days of treatment.
• treat with steroid creams or antihistamines, moisturizers, and sunscreen.

Interstitial Lung Disease

EGFR receptors in the loop oh henle regulate Mg and Ca resorption
- hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia.

Question 2

HER2 inhibition

Answer 2

Reversible cardiotoxicity
- HER2 expressed at low levels in cardiomyocytes.

• usually no effect, but can cause symptomatic decrease in LV ejection factions and heart failure.

Question 3

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Answer 3

Diarrhea, Hand and foot syn, and Edema

Hand and Foot syndrome

• mani pedis before therapy
• moisturizers and socks/gloves

Edema usually with Imatinib. Periorbital or peripheral. Requires regular weighing of the patient.

Question 4

Other non-drug-specific side effects

Answer 4

Hypothyroidism