Unusual dermatologic toxicity of long-term therapy with hydroxyurea in chronic myelogenous leukemia

Tumori. 1986 Jun 30;72(3):317-21. doi: 10.1177/030089168607200314.

Abstract

The unusual appearance of extensive skin ulcerations was observed in 17 patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia on continuous chemotherapy with hydroxyurea. The strict relationship between ulcers and therapy was proved by the complete (14 cases) or almost complete (3 cases) healing of lesions after therapy was discontinued. The possible pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for skin alterations are considered. The particular importance of the continuous hydroxyurea administration modality clearly emerges, suggesting the use of different administration modalities to reduce such serious side effects.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antigen-Antibody Complex / analysis
  • Complement Activating Enzymes / analysis
  • Complement C1q
  • Complement C3 / analysis
  • Complement C4 / analysis
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hydroxyurea / administration & dosage
  • Hydroxyurea / adverse effects*
  • Leukemia, Myeloid / drug therapy*
  • Leukemia, Myeloid / immunology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Ulcer / chemically induced*
  • Skin Ulcer / pathology
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antigen-Antibody Complex
  • Complement C3
  • Complement C4
  • Complement C1q
  • Complement Activating Enzymes
  • Hydroxyurea