Lichen planopilaris-like eruption in chronic myeloid leukemia patient during treatment with nilotinib as second-line therapy

Abstract

Introduction Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a malignant clonal disorder of hematopoietic stem cells characterized by a translocation of genetic material between chromosomes 9 and 22 resulting in the BCR-ABL fusion oncogene expression. Nilotinib is a potent second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor available as first line treatment. Among side effects QTc interval prolongation, pancreatitis, metabolic disorders and skin reactions are the most commonly seen. Case Report Here we describe a rare case of lichen planopilaris eruption that developed during therapy with nilotinib. Management & Outcome Nilotinib dosage was reduced together with introduction of hydroxychloroquine with progressive improvement of alopecia. Discussion Collaboration with dermatologist and nilotinib dose reduction allowed to continue the drug maintaining major molecular response and patient's quality of life.