• Yue Yin, Xin Ye Qiu, Yan Hua Zhang, and Bin Zhang.
• Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pharmacy.
• Medicine (Baltimore). 2019 Aug 1; 98 (31): e16392.

RationaleVandetanib is effective for treating symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic disease, but its toxicity such as photosensitivity reactions should be considered. It is a rare adverse effect of this drug but might cause severe morbidity and even mortality.Patient ConcernsA 26-year man with MTC developed phototoxic rashes on the sun-exposed areas of his shin after 15 days from the initiation of vandetanib treatment. Grade II skin toxicity was evaluated based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events standard.DiagnosesDrug-induced phototoxic rash.InterventionsThe vandetanib dose was reduced by 30%, and the application of topical steroids and sunscreen was adopted.OutcomesAfter dose reduction of vandetanib, the symptoms of vandetanib-induced phototoxic rash resolved, although residual pigmentation was observed.LessonsClose attention should be paid to the adverse effect of vandetanib, phototoxic rash, and patients should be advised on the prevention and treatment measures.

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