Clinical characterization of stomatitis cases with an epithelial growth factor receptor inhibitor in metastatic colorectal cancer patients: A study of 7 cases and literature review.

Objective: The aim of this study was to report a case series of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) undergoing panitumumab-containing regimens affected by oral lesions and to review the current literature.

Study Design: Electronic medical records of mCRC patients referred to treat mouth sores during the treatment with the anti-epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR)-panitumumab-were retrospectively reviewed. Patients' characterization, clinical profile of oral lesions, and management outcomes were documented. Additionally, modifications or discontinuation of the antineoplastic treatment as well as the occurrence of other adverse events (AEs) were analyzed.

Results: A total of 7 patients were included. The oral lesions appeared in a median time of 10 days (range 7-11 days) after the drug administration. The median reported pain score was 5 (range 1-9), causing feeding discomfort. Oral lesions with a marked aphthous-like appearance, among others, occurred in all cases and involved nonkeratinized mucosa more likely. At least 1 patient had dose reduction of the treatment and 1 patient needed discontinuation due to panitumumab-associated stomatitis. Dermatologic AEs were the most prevalent. Clinical improvement was obtained with topical corticosteroid therapy and/or photobiomodulation.

Conclusions: In summary, panitumumab-containing regimens were associated with a particular pattern of oral lesions consistent with stomatitis. This event may eventually affect the tolerability of the treatment in patients with mCRC.