Chemotherapy-induced acral erythema

The hand -foot syndrome ( erythrodysesthaesia syndrome of the palms and soles, HFS or palmar- plantar erythrodysesthaesia syndrome, PPE) is associated with painful swelling and redness erythematous skin lesions on the palms and soles, particularly as an accompanying reaction of an antineoplastic chemotherapy may occur or as part of a sickle cell anemia. Also, sensory disturbances such as tingling or numbness can be observed. In severe cases, the skin may peel off. The extent varies from a painless swelling of the above-mentioned localization (grade 1 ) to highly painful blisters and peeling skin with corresponding functional limitations (grade 3).

The pathogenesis is unclear; therefore, the treatment is limited to symptomatic measures such as the administration of analgesics, corticosteroids, vitamin B6 or 10 % uridinhaltigen creams.

Cooling the skin to prevent the extent and severity of the symptoms.

Cytotoxic drugs which can cause hand-foot syndrome, for example, capecitabine, cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, docetaxel, doxorubicin, 5 -FU, oxaliplatin, paclitaxel, sorafenib and sunitinib.