Observations and proposed mechanism of N,N',N''-triethylenethiophosphoramide (thiotepa)-induced hyperpigmentation

Arch Dermatol. 1989 Apr;125(4):524-7.

Abstract

After receiving N,N',N''-triethylenethiophosphoramide (thiotepa) and cyclophosphamide intravenously, five women with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the breast developed a patterned hyperpigmentation confined to skin occluded by adhesive-containing materials. Determinations of thiotepa concentrations in occluded and nonoccluded skin, plasma, bandage with adhesive, and gauze containing sweat were performed. The results suggest that this alkylating agent is excreted onto the skin surface in sweat, accumulates beneath adhesive-containing bandages and electrocardiogram pads, and exerts a local toxic effect resulting in hyperpigmentation.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cyclophosphamide / administration & dosage
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Occlusive Dressings / adverse effects
  • Pigmentation Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Skin / metabolism
  • Sweat / metabolism
  • Thiotepa / administration & dosage
  • Thiotepa / adverse effects*
  • Thiotepa / metabolism
  • Wilms Tumor / drug therapy

Substances

  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Thiotepa