Letrozole/skin problems

Hi everyone. I have been taking Letrozole for almost 6 years and I thought without any side effects. However, only since my mastectomy and taking Letrozole I started to develop a skin condition which my dermatologist said  was called Hidradenitis Suppertivia, it has become increasingly worse over time and yet I never thought it could be as a side effect to Letrozole until recently.  I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this skin condition while taking Letrozole? I am seriously considering stopping taking the Letrozole but not 100% sure yet. Any feedback would be so helpful, thank you.

  • Hi Alicia21,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. It would be good to speak to your doctor to get their opinion on this, and whether there's anything that can help to alleviate the condition. It would also be good to get their advice with your decision.

    I'm not sure if you've browsed the forum here much but if you use the search function (in the blue bar) you may be able to find others who have experienced something similar. Otherwise hopefully any others with similar experience will be along here soon.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

     

  • Hi Alicia, I have had Hidradenitis (HS) for about 20 yrs, in my groin and armpits. I was just diagnosed with Breast cancer on March 31st and have been given Letrozole for three months, until it's safe to have surgery. I didn't think about Letrozole affecting my HS until I saw your post. I guess I will have to weigh up the pros and cons of taking it. The HS isn't life-threatening, the cancer is, so... If you ever need to talk about your HS, feel free to ask. Best wishes Pat xx 

  • Hi Bakerpat.

    Thanks for the post. I'm not that convinced now that Letrozole is connected with HS. I have also had HS for many years but it seemed to get much worse after my mastectomy 6 years ago, so I was just trying to make a connection as to why. I stopped taking Letrozole for a short time but no difference to my HS so I went back on it. I'm curious,  how are you managing your HS, if you don't mind me asking?  I'd love to compare notes. xxx