Neutralization of IL-8 Prevents Dermatologic Adverse Events Associated with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibition

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, used in cancer treatment, were associated with dermatological adverse reactions like papulopustular rash, which could limit dosage and affect treatment compliance. The study developed a model using healthy volunteers injected with the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody zalutumumab to induce a rash similar to those caused by systemic EGFR inhibitors. The research found that neutrophils, attracted by IL-8, played a central role in the rash's development. Treatment with HuMab-10F8, a neutralizing antibody against IL-8, reduced the rash, suggesting that IL-8 inhibition could alleviate these dermatological side effects.