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Media type:
E-Article
Title:
Density of Demodex folliculorum in Patients Receiving Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors
Contributor:
Gerber, Peter A.;
Kukova, Gabriela;
Buhren, Bettina A.;
Homey, Bernhard
imprint:
S. Karger AG, 2011
Published in:Dermatology
Language:
English
DOI:
10.1159/000323001
ISSN:
1018-8665;
1421-9832
Origination:
Footnote:
Description:
<jats:p><i>Background:</i> Rosacea-like papulopustular eruptions (rash) are considered the most frequent toxicities associated with the use of inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Recently, evidence has been accumulating of infectious complications in patients suffering from these adverse effects. <i>Objective:</i> We sought to analyze the density of <i>Demodex folliculorum</i> (DF) in cutaneous lesions of patients presenting with EGFR-inhibitor (EGFRI)-induced rashes. <i>Methods:</i> This is a retrospective study of 19 adult patients presenting with EGFRI rashes. Patients were reviewed for the density of DF (<i>Demodex</i> density, Dd; mites per square centimeter) by standardized skin surface biopsy. <i>Results:</i> In our patient collective the mean Dd of 4.7/cm<sup>2</sup> significantly exceeded the mean Dd reported for the healthy adult population (Dd = 0.7/cm<sup>2</sup>). <i>Limitations:</i> The retrospective nature of the study. <i>Conclusions:</i> EGFRI patients have an increased susceptibility to DF colonization or infection, respectively. Our results support the recent concept that EGFRI may induce an impairment of antimicrobial defense mechanisms.</jats:p>