Alkylating agents are a class of chemotherapeutic drugs that are commonly used in oncology to treat various types of cancers. These agents work by directly damaging the DNA of cancer cells, leading to cell death. In dermatology, alkylating agents have been used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as mycosis fungoides and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Some examples of alkylating agents used in dermatology include nitrogen mustard, cyclophosphamide, and chlorambucil.

In this learning module, you will find a comprehensive review of the different alkylating agents used in dermatology, including their mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions.

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Sources

  1. Bolognia J, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L. Dermatology. 4th edition ed: Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2018 9th November 2017. 2880 p.
  2. Wolverton SE, Wu JJ. Comprehensive dermatologic drug therapy. 4th edition ed: Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021 19th March 2020. 1024 p.
  • Release Date: March 20 2023

  • Last Updated: March 20 2023

  • Time to complete: 30 minutes

  • Authors:

    • Dr. Zeinah Alhalees, MD, University of British Columbia
    • Dr. Naif Aljahani, MD, Prince Sultan Military Medical City
    • Dr. Elena Netchiporouk, MD, McGill University