Management of Chronic Toenail Paronychia Induced by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor: A Case Report
10.14193/jkfas.2025.29.4.163
- Author:
Min Jung PARK
1
;
Jae Wan SUH
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society
2025;29(4):163-165
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are used widely as targeted therapy for non-small cell lung cancer, but often cause dermatologic adverse events, including chronic paronychia. This paper reports a case of a 70-year-old woman who developed refractory bilateral great toenail paronychia after EGFR inhibitor therapy. Initial management at the authors’ institution included oral antibiotics and steroid ointment. Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) ointment and antibiotic ointment were applied after 4 weeks of this treatment. Eight weeks after initial presentation, the wound inflammation improved, and rhEGF ointment alone was continued. At 3 months, the inflammation had resolved, and the patient remained asymptomatic with stable, well-controlled lesions at 9 months. This case highlights the successful use of rhEGF to treat EGFR inhibitor-induced refractory paronychia after the failure of conventional therapies. A review of the relevant literature is provided to emphasize the potential benefits of rhEGF in managing this challenging adverse event.
