Unusual serpentine hyperpigmentation associated with 5-fluorouracil. Case report and review of cutaneous manifestations associated with systemic 5-fluorouracil

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1991 Nov;25(5 Pt 2):905-8. doi: 10.1016/0190-9622(91)70280-f.

Abstract

A variety of cutaneous reactions have been reported with the use of systemic 5-fluorouracil. Our patient had serpentine hyperpigmented streaks appearing 5 days after bolus infusion of 5-fluorouracil. The patient also had other skin eruptions, that is, inflammation of actinic keratoses and folliculitis limited to the forehead; these reactions have been reported previously with 5-fluorouracil medication. We report this case and review the literature on skin manifestations associated with 5-fluorouracil therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / drug therapy
  • Aged
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology*
  • Fluorouracil / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / chemically induced
  • Pigmentation Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Rectal Neoplasms / drug therapy

Substances

  • Fluorouracil