Best evidence summary for the management of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor-induced skin toxicity symptoms in cancer patients

Objective This study aimed to evaluate and summarize the best available evidence on the management of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor-induced skin toxicity symptoms in cancer patients, serving as a reference for medical staff. Methods We systematically searched for evidence on skin toxicity symptoms in databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang; guideline repositories such as Guidelines International Network (GIN) and New Zealand Guidelines Group (NZGG); and professional organization websites such as International Union Against Cancer (UICC) and American Cancer Society (ACS). The search time was limited from database establishment to July 2024. Two researchers evaluated the quality of the literature and extracted the data. Results A total of 20 articles were included in this study, including 3 clinical decisions, 7 guidelines, 3 evidence summaries, 2 recommended practices, and 5 expert consensuses. Finally, 27 pieces of evidence were identified across 9 aspects: professional medical training, patient health education, precise skin assessment, reducing skin irritation, promoting skin comfort, skin sun protection care, skin moisturizing care, drug preventive measures, and drug treatment measures. Conclusion Our research summarizes the best evidence for the management of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRI)-induced skin toxicity symptoms in cancer patients. In clinical practice, it is necessary to fully consider the clinical situation, balance professional judgment with patients’ preferences, follow the principle of individualization, analyze the obstacles and facilitating factors of the application of evidence, and apply the evidence to clinical practice prudently.