A case series of imatinib-induced generalized hypopigmentation and progression of existing acquired dermal melanocytosis

Imatinib mesylate is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of oncological conditions, including chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The most frequent dermatological side effect reported is pigmentary abnormalities. We report a case series of three Asian Chinese...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Wai Leong Kok, Qiping Chen, Siong See Joyce Lee, Sze Hon Chua, See Ket Ng
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2017-11-01
Series:Journal of Dermatological Treatment
Subjects:
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2017.1328099
Description
Summary:Imatinib mesylate is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of oncological conditions, including chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The most frequent dermatological side effect reported is pigmentary abnormalities. We report a case series of three Asian Chinese females with preexisting acquired dermal melanocytosis that progressed after initiation of imatinib treatment, and concurrently developed generalized hypopigmentation of the skin. All three patients had similar histological findings on skin biopsy. It is postulated that the KIT/SCF pathway has a central role in the pathogenetic mechanism. Therefore, it is important for physicians to be aware of this potential side effect of paradoxical pigmentation in patients treated with imatinib.
ISSN:0954-6634
1471-1753