cancer rash

Several months ago my 67 yo male friend was incorrectly diagnosed with pulmonary Nocardia.  After developing total body rashes after using Septra and Minocyline they did another biopsy and discovered non-small cell lung cancer(Stage 3)  He has begun chemotherapy (gemzar and paraplatin) which has slightly improved the rash but it remains.  His skin is very dry and these bumps and patches of red scaly skin, though not itchy, are a great source of frustration for him.  Can you recommend any therapy, external and/or internal that could help with this?  The oncologist has no suggestions.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I recommend that your friend see a dermatologist.  If the rash remains after stopping Septra and Minocycline, then it's clearly not a drug reaction.  Perhaps it never was.  It may well be completely unrelated to the cancer or treatment--it may be something as ordinary as eczema.  I am confident that a skin consultation will lead to proper diagnosis and treatment.  Meantime, a bland moisturizer like Eucerin whould give at least some relief.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff