Rash from Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Receptor Blockers (The James)

Rash from Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Receptor Blockers (The James)

Some chemotherapy medicines may cause a rash. This rash can happen after your first dose of medicine. The rash often appears within 1 to 3 weeks after your first dose. The rash may mean that your dose of medicine needs to be changed. The rash may be more severe at first, and then lessen over time. The treatment for this rash may include creams or lotions for your skin or a prescription medicine that you can take by mouth.

What should I do if I have a rash?

  • Tell your doctor if the rash is painful, itchy, oozing or if it makes it hard for you to do your daily activities.
  • The rash may look like acne, but it is not the same. Do not use acne medicines or drying agents on the rash. They can make the rash worse. Let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription medicines for acne.
  • Do not use over the counter products on your skin that contain:
    • Alcohol
    • Benzoyl peroxide
    • Salicylic acid
    • Sulfur
    • Resorcinol
  • You may cover the rash with makeup. Use a dermatologist approved product. Do not use makeup that contains alcohol. Products like Dermablend can be found at major department stores.
  • Remove makeup with a skin friendly, non-drying cleanser such as CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, Cetaphil Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial.
  • Keep your skin and the rash moisturized. Use moisturizing creams such as Cerave Moisturizing Cream, Cetaphil Cream, Vanicream Light Lotion or Neutrogena Hydroboost on all areas where the rash is present, including your scalp if needed, to prevent dryness and more irritation.
  • Take short lukewarm showers. Do not shower more than one time each day. Use body creams or lotions while your skin is still damp. This will help keep your skin moist and prevent dryness. Do not use lotions that are scented or have added dyes. These types of lotions can cause burning.
  • Wear comfortable loose fitting clothes. Cotton fabrics are best.
  • Being in the sun may cause your rash to get worse. Use a hypoallergenic sunscreen like Neutrogena with a SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days. You need to put sunscreen on again after being in the water or after working up a sweat.
  • Wear a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses to help protect your face.

 

© March 4, 2021. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care.

For more health information, call the Patient and Family Resource Center at 614-366-0602 or visit cancer.osu.edu/PFRC