Flagellate Pattern of Toxic Erythema of Chemotherapy Due to Doxorubicin: A Case Report

J Cutan Med Surg. 2016 Sep;20(5):481-3. doi: 10.1177/1203475416644831. Epub 2016 Apr 11.

Abstract

Background: Doxorubicin is an antineoplastic agent frequently used in diverse cancer regimens. Cutaneous adverse effects have frequently been reported with its use. However, a flagellate-like dermatitis is not mentioned in the literature.

Objective: The investigators report a case of toxic erythema of chemotherapy with a flagellate pattern induced by doxorubicin.

Methods and results: A 75-year-old woman with endometrial cancer received doxorubicin as part of her treatment. After her third cycle, she presented a pruritic vesiculobullous eruption, with linear elements that left hyperpigmented streaks on follow-up. A biopsy was compatible with a drug eruption.

Conclusion: Doxorubicin is a well-known cause of toxic erythema of chemotherapy. As seen in this patient, the investigators suggest that it also be added to the list of causes of flagellate dermatosis.

Keywords: dermatology; doxorubicin; flagellate dermatitis; inflammatory dermatosis; toxic erythema of chemotherapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antibiotics, Antineoplastic / adverse effects*
  • Doxorubicin / adverse effects*
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology
  • Drug Eruptions / pathology*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Erythema / chemically induced
  • Erythema / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antibiotics, Antineoplastic
  • Doxorubicin