Pemetrexed-induced cellulitis: A rare toxicity in non-small cell lung cancer treatment

Abstract

Pemetrexed is indicated for locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small-cell lung cancer as an initial treatment in combination with cisplatin or after prior chemotherapy as a single agent. It is generally a well-tolerated drug. The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥20%) with single-agent use are fatigue, nausea, and anorexia. Additional common side effects when used in combination with cisplatin include vomiting, neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, stomatitis/pharyngitis, thrombocytopenia, and constipation. Peripheral edema with associated erythema has rarely been described as an adverse effect. Herein, we report a patient with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer who experienced bilateral peripheral edema after pemetrexed administration. Discontinuation of pemetrexed and corticosteroids use completely resolved peripheral edema.