Management of dermatologic toxicities related to epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor therapy across Europe: can we get a consensus?

To date, there are no phase III trial data that can guide healthcare professionals in managing toxicities of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs). This exploratory survey assessed the similarities and differences in nursing management of EGFRI-related toxicities across 10 European countries. A questionnaire that was sent to ten nurses who specialize in the treatment of patients with EGFRI asked about the prevention and treatment of acneiform rash, dry skin/eczema, fissures, paronychia, and pyogenic granuloma. Responses from seven nurses showed that overall (with the exception of rash), treatment differed markedly between countries in the management of dermatologic toxicities. These substantial differences across the European hospitals surveyed suggest that it might be worthwhile to develop treatment algorithms by conducting a consensus conference or a follow-up survey with several assessments and a larger sample.