iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersHematologyhypopigmentation

Got skin whitening as a side effect of Gleevec. Will this go away?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have CML-CP. I am on Gleevec for the last year. My query is about skin whitening as it has turned too white. Will this side effect go away?

Answered by Dr. Prasad Eswaran

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

  1. Skin whitening is technically called hypopigmentation. This is the usual side effect of Gleevec (Imatinib) and is usually harmless.
  2. Usually, it is reversible once the drug is stopped. However, evidence for stopping the drug is limited and no consensus exists on drug cessation when cured of CML (chronic myeloid leukemia).

I would suggest you consult an oncologist about drug cessation if you are in complete molecular remission as evaluated by the BCR-ABL test and completed a minimum of five to eight years of therapy.
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At June 18, 2016
Reviewed AtJune 5, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

1,026Visits prepared today
4.8/5User rating
~60 secAverage completion time
Companion

Imatinib Hypopigmentation Companion

How it works

Imatinib (Gleevec) is a medication used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Skin whitening, also known as hypopigmentation, is a known side effect. Here's what you need to know.

1

Hypopigmentation
Detail

2

Imatinib
Effect

3

Imatinib
Induced

4

Might
Drug

5

CML
Basics

6

Consulting
Oncologist

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.
Dr. Prasad Eswaran
Dr. Prasad Eswaran

Medical oncology

Consult this doctor
Listen to related tracks in our music library

Related Questions

Should I be prepared for any other tests to check my blood cell levels?

From the attached investigations, kindly explain the condition of the patient.

What are the reasons for high platelet count?

There are gradually increasing light patches on the chin area. What would it be?

Got skin whitening as a side effect of Gleevec. Will this go away?

Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

hypopigmentationbcr-abl (breakpoint cluster region-abelson) testdrug cessationimatinibchronic myeloid leukemia

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Hematology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.