Cutaneous Adverse Events during Vemurafenib Therapy

Abstract

Background: Vemurafenib, an oral agent that selectively targets the BRAF V600E mutation, has recently emerged as the mainstay of treatment in patients with BRAF-positive stage IV melanoma. A spectrum of cutaneous adverse events has been associated with vemurafenib, ranging from benign rashes to malignant side effects such as keratoacanthoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Objective: In this article, we review clinical data regarding the frequency and severity of the common dermatologic side effects associated with vemurafenib; case series and noncontrolled studies evaluating the safety of vemurafenib therapy are used to further characterize these adverse events. Conclusion: Benign vemurafenib-induced side effects generally tend not to be severe or life threatening, with most patients managed by dose interruptions, dose reductions, or topical therapies. Squamous cell carcinomas and keratoacanthomas associated with vemurafenib therapy are easily treated by simple excision of the lesion without discontinuation of vemurafenib. Thus, awareness of potential adverse events coupled with routine dermatologic assessment and timely management will allow for optimal therapeutic benefit in patients receiving vemurafenib therapy.