Ivana Puliafito

Dr. Ivana Puliafito

Medical Oncology Unit, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, Viagrande, I-95029 Catania, Italy

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

8Years (2019-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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15 March 2022 in Journal of International Medical Research
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
IPIvana Puliafito
Ivana Puliafito
FEFrancesca Esposito
Francesca Esposito
GRGabriele Raciti
Gabriele Raciti
PGPaolo Giuffrida
Paolo Giuffrida
CCClaudia Caltavuturo
Claudia Caltavuturo
DGDario Giuffrida
Dario Giuffrida
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are the first-line treatment for EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. Toxicities related to EGFR-TKIs include skin rash, paronychia, and diarrhea, which in some cases can lead to dose reductions or treatment interruptions. Herein, we report the case of a 51-year-old woman affected by advanced adenocarcinoma harboring an exon 19 deletion in the EGFR gene, who was treated with second-generation EGFR-TKI following a scheduled gradual dose reduction to better manage toxicities. Following prescription labeling, treatment was initiated at a dose of 40 mg daily. After a few months, the dose was reduced to 30 mg daily owing to grade 3 skin toxicity. A metabolic complete tumor response was observed after 1 year of treatment, then therapy was continued at 20 mg daily, enabling disease stabilization. In conclusion, low dose afatinib was effective in an EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer patient who required dose reductions to better manage toxicities.