A Second Case of Sunitinib-associated Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Abstract

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a painful, noninfectious, ulcerative, cutaneous disorder that most commonly affects the lower extremities. The diagnosis is made by recognizing the characteristic clinical manifestations in the setting of a causative systemic disease and excluding other causes of similar-appearing ulcerations. Pyoderma gangrenosum often evolves in the setting of systemic illnesses, such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatological disorders, and hematological conditions. However, several medications have rarely been linked to pyoderma gangrenosum. The authors report the second case of sunitinib-associated pyoderma gangrenosum in a 61-year-old patient with recurrent renal cell carcinoma.

Figure 1

Painful, deep 4.9 × 4.5cm distal lateral calf pyoderma gangrenosum ulceration with a fibropurulent base and violaceous, partially necrotic border

Figure 2

Sixteen weeks after termination of sunitinib, the calf ulceration healed.