# Diffuse Maculopapular Dermatitis Associated With Leuprorelin Acetate Androgen Deprivation Therapy

## TL;DR

An 80-year-old man developed a skin rash after receiving leuprolide acetate for prostate cancer, which was successfully treated with prednisone.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a rare dermatological side effect of leuprolide acetate and its successful management.

## Key findings

- The patient developed diffuse maculopapular dermatitis after multiple leuprolide injections.
- Prednisone treatment resolved the dermatitis without long-term effects.
- The case emphasizes the need for clinicians to recognize and address ADT-related skin reactions.

## Abstract

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is one of the effective treatment methods for prostate cancer, often used with radiation therapy. Among the key ADT agents is leuprolide, a synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist, which effectively suppresses testosterone production which is a requisite for the growth and division of prostate cancer cells. However, leuprolide is associated with several well-known side effects and less common dermatological reactions. In this case, we present an 80-year-old male patient with stage IIB prostate cancer who developed diffuse maculopapular dermatitis following leuprolide acetate ADT. The patient first experienced mild dermatitis following the fifth monthly 7.5 mg leuprolide injection before it developed into a general body rash after six injections. The dermatitis manifested on the patient’s arms, thighs, calves, dorsum, and back of hands but sparing the abdomen, face, and neck. The pruritic dermatitis was managed successfully with a three-week course of prednisone which led to complete resolution without long-term sequelae. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing dermatological side effects associated with ADT. Clinicians should maintain an index of suspicion and act promptly when these side effects manifest. Systematic reporting and further research are essential to enhance patient safety and understanding of drug-related dermatological manifestations.