Drug-induced neutrophilic lobular panniculitis secondary to BRAF and MEK inhibitor used for treatment of low-grade glioma and its management

Abstract

An 8-year-old boy presented with his mother for evaluation of an erythematous rash 3 weeks after the start of dual BRAF-MEK inhibition with dabrafenib and trametinib for treatment of progression of low-grade glioma. Panniculitis has been reported as a rare adverse cutaneous event induced by BRAF inhibitors, MEK inhibitors, and the combined dual BRAF-MEK therapy. Based on the patient’s history, clinical presentation, and histopathological findings, a diagnosis of drug-induced neutrophilic panniculitis was made. This case describes neutrophilic panniculitis as a potential cutaneous manifestation of dual BRAF-MEK inhibitor therapy and describes the management of such side effects. Neutrophilic panniculitis is a relatively rare manifestation, characterized by neutrophilic inflammation in the subcutaneous tissue. Additionally, this case serves as a reminder to consider the cutaneous side effects of such therapies, given that MEK and BRAF inhibitors are increasingly used to treat primary brain tumors in the pediatric population. Routine inspection and early management may improve patients’ quality of life and enable continuation of anticancer therapy.

Keywords:

• BRAF inhibitor
• BRAF-MEK
• drug-induced neutrophilic panniculitis
• low-grade glioma
• MEK inhibitor

Disclosure statement/Funding

The authors report no funding or conflicts of interest. The patient and parent consented to publication of this case.