Successful desensitization in a case of Stevens-Johnson syndrome due to vemurafenib

Melanoma Res. 2012 Oct;22(5):410-1. doi: 10.1097/CMR.0b013e3283573437.

Abstract

The BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib can cause severe cutaneous reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, particularly when administered after ipilimumab, which usually prevents further drug administration. We report the case of a patient with Stevens-Johnson syndrome due to vemurafenib, who was retreated with vemurafenib with a program of slow desensitization with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine. Vemurafenib was tolerated at a 50% dose after a 3-week desensitization. Desensitization may be possible in patients who develop Stevens-Johnson syndrome after vemurafenib treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Desensitization, Immunologic / methods*
  • Dexamethasone / therapeutic use*
  • Diphenhydramine / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Indoles / administration & dosage
  • Indoles / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / chemically induced*
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / immunology
  • Sulfonamides / administration & dosage
  • Sulfonamides / adverse effects*
  • Vemurafenib

Substances

  • Indoles
  • Sulfonamides
  • Vemurafenib
  • Dexamethasone
  • Diphenhydramine