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Imatinib and thin skin on hands

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I’ve been on 400 mg of gleevec daily for 8 years and my CML is well controlled - not undetectable but close at log 4+ reduction, and most side effects are quite manageable.

Lately though the skin on my hands is so fragile and thin. I’m 39 and the slightest bump or tiny scrape rips the skin off or leaves a large blood blister. My hands are covered with scrapes just from daily life with a couple kids and it’s getting quite painful.

Just wondering if anyone else has had this side effect and if there’s anything you’ve done to treat it? I know these TKIs affect melanin production and skin regeneration but I can’t imagine how it’s going to be in another ten years and more if it’s this bad now.

I also have a similar side effect. Occasionally a small patch of skin will separate and come off. Mostly on my fingers and knuckles. I don't get large blood blisters, but do get lots of tiny ones. I call them pepper hemorrhages because they look like specks of pepper when they turn black. Also a fingernail will sometimes get a little splinter hemorrhage under it.

Because you're doing so well with your PCR tests you could probably reduce the dosage of Gleevec. It probably won't eliminate the problems but hopefully reduce their severity.

I've tried both a reduced Gleevec dose and changing to Sprycel. I don't tolerate Sprycel very well, so I've mostly been on Gleevec.

Thanks, good to know! My doctor has been hesitant to lower my dose since I only just hit the log 4 reduction, I was log 3 for years.

Perhaps after awhile longer with a better response she might cut my dosage and hopefully lessen these side effects.