Chloracne-like drug eruption associated with sorafenib

Abstract

Sorafenib is a chemotherapeutic agent primarily used to treat metastatic renal cell carcinoma. It is a multikinase inhibitor that blocks cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Numerous cutaneous side effects have been reported in association with this medication, including acral erythema, inflammation of actinic keratoses, erythema multiforme, vasculitis, and keratoacanthomas. Up to 40 percent of patients on this medication develop dermatologic manifestations. We describe chloracne-like eruptions in two different patients with no exposure to aromatic hydrocarbons but who were recently started on sorafenib for treatment of metastatic renal carcinoma. The primary reason for discontinuation of sorafenib is secondary to its adverse side effect profile. Recognizing these effects early and administering appropriate treatment will likely increase medication compliance and minimize both dose reductions and discontinuation of the medication resulting in optimal treatment outcomes.