Cutaneous Adverse Reactions to Imatinib: A Case Report of a SuccessfulSlow Protocol for Induction of Drug Tolerance

Imatinib mesylate (Gleevec®- Novartis, UK) is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor widely used for the treatment of hematologic diseases such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Administration of Imatinib has been related to both cutaneous side effects and hypersensitivity reactions. Since it often is a unique therapeutic option for the treatment of CML, desensitization becomes an option in patients who develop hypersensitivity reactions and do not have equally effective therapeutic options. We hereby propose a possible slow protocol for induction of tolerance, suitable for patients who develop cutaneous delayed reactions.