INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: NECOM 5: Algorithm for the Treatment and Supportive Management of Targeted Therapy-Related Cutaneous Adverse Events.

Abstract

Background: The cancer burden in the Nordic European countries remains substantial, but new treatment approaches, such as targeted therapy, have increased the survival of cancer patients. During and following cancer treatment regimens, however, patients' quality of life may be severely affected by sequelae, including cutaneous adverse events (cAEs). Overall, practical clinical tools for the management of cAEs in cancer patients and survivors have been lacking.

Methods: The Nordic European Cutaneous Oncodermatology Management (NECOM) project addresses cAEs in cancer patients, aiming to identify specific challenges and develop practical algorithms for their management. NECOM 1 and 2 provided an overview of cAEs and general recommendations for prevention and appropriate skin care regimens. NECOM 3 and 4 explored cAEs related to radiation therapy and immunotherapy, respectively. This NECOM 5 develops a practical algorithm for preventing and treating targeted therapy-related cAEs (TTcAEs).

Results: The NECOM panel discussed the findings of a systematic review of cAEs associated with targeted cancer therapy. The panel reached a consensus on a practical algorithm for TTcAEs, considering the current evidence, expert opinion, and clinical settings in the Nordic countries. The algorithm included general prevention and skin care recommendations, followed by specific advice for addressing the most common TTcAEs (papulopustular eruption, pruritus, hand-foot skin reaction, and paronychia).

Conclusions: Targeted therapy-related cAEs may negatively affect cancer patients and survivors. The NECOM panel provides a practical algorithm for preventing and managing TTcAEs to improve cancer patient outcomes and quality of life. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24:3(Suppl 2):s3-10.