A patient treated with gemcitabine (2,2’-diflurodeoxycytidine) may develop a skin reaction that clinically resembles a cellulitis.
Mechanism: unclear. Some cases may represent a radiation recall phenomenon.
Clinical features:
(1) erythema
(2) edema
(3) variable fever
In some cases it affects reas of pre-existing lymphedema or edema.
The clinical picture may be mistaken for cellulitis or erysipelas. Cultures will be negative. Antibiotics may be started but without effect. Failure to respond to therapy may be a clue to the diagnosis.
The reaction resolves once gemcitabine is discontinued.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
