# Patient perspectives on epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor-induced skin toxicities: a qualitative study

## TL;DR

This study explores how cancer patients experience and cope with skin side effects from EGFRI treatment, highlighting their physical and emotional needs.

## Contribution

The study provides new qualitative insights into patient experiences and coping strategies for EGFRI-induced skin toxicities.

## Key findings

- Patients experienced adverse physiological effects and emotional distress from EGFRI-induced skin toxicity.
- Patients reported impacts on daily life and diverse coping strategies.
- There is a clear desire for improved medical support and tailored psychological care.

## Abstract

This study systematically explored the experience and supportive care needs of patients with cancer developing skin toxicity following Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor (EGFRI) treatment.

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted. A total of 9 patients with cancer recruited from a single tertiary hospital in Zhejiang Province between July and August 2024 participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method to systematically derive themes related to patients’ experiences and care needs.

This study extracted a total of five themes and thirteen sub-themes, which included adverse physiological experiences, coexistence of negative and positive emotional experiences, impacts on daily life, diverse coping styles, and desire for medical support and help.

Clinical staff should prioritize attention to the physical and psychological distress experienced by patients with cancer with EGFRI-induced skin toxicities. Implementing enhanced symptom evaluation and management, providing tailored psychological support, and offering professional guidance can help patients effectively cope with their symptoms and foster their self-growth.