Figure 4. EGFR/MEK inhibitors disrupts the skin barrier function and impairs antibacterial defense.

Intracellular signaling downstream of EGFR is essential for skin homeostasis and immune defense. Inhibition of this signaling results in barrier dysfunction, hair follicle infection, and immunopathology. Staphylococcus aureus is the common etiologic agent associated with EGFR/MEK inhibitor-induced cutaneous adverse events.