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.