Clinical efficacy of La Roche-Posay dermatological laboratory products in the treatment of dermatological toxicity associated with anticancer therapy: results of a prospective study

Background: Modern anticancer therapy, including targeted agents and immunotherapy, is associated with a high incidence of dermatological adverse events (75–90% with EGFR inhibitors and over 30% with immunotherapy). These reactions range from mild to severe, significantly impairing patients’ quality of life and decreasing treatment adherence. Despite existing approaches to treatment, there remains a need for effective and safe methods for the treatment and prevention of this condition.

Objective: Evaluation of the efficacy of topical dermatological agents for the treatment of skin toxicity in patients receiving anticancer therapy.

Materials and methods: This prospective, open-label, non-randomized study included 44 patients with grade 1–3 dermatological toxicity, assessed using the standardized NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Version 5 (CTCAE v 5.0) scale [1]. The main group (n=23) received a combination of the La Roche-Posay Dermatological Laboratory products: LIPIKAR SYNDET AP+ lipid-replenishing face and body cream-gel once daily, LIPIKAR BAUME AP+M lipid-replenishing balm 1–2 times daily, and CICAPLAST BAUME B5+ restorative balm 2–3 times daily on damaged skin areas (cracks, excoriations, erosions). The comparison group (n=21) used other emollients. Local skin status was assessed on days 0, 7–10, and 14–21 using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. Concurrently, skin lesions were photographically documented using the specialized FotoFinder system.

Results. The mean age of the participants was 58 years, with a predominance of women (56.8%). According to the severity of skin manifestations, patients were distributed as follows: grade 1 (grade I) – 29.5% of cases, grade 2 (grade II) – 59.1%, grade 3 (grade III) – 11.4%. Of all clinical forms of skin toxicity, acneiform rashes were the most common (36.4% of cases). The analysis of efficacy revealed statistically significant differences between the groups: a significant decrease in the total DLQI score in the main group (8.10 → 2.30; p < 0.001), in contrast to the control group (8.29 → 5.43; p < 0.001). The positive effect in the main group was evident as early as days 7–10 of therapy. It is important to note that no adverse events associated with the use of the study drugs were recorded in either group.

Conclusion: La Roche-Posay Dermatological Laboratory products demonstrate a more pronounced and rapid therapeutic effect compared to other emollients, confirming their inclusion in treatment and prevention regimens for dermatological toxicity.