A topical ointment containing a recombinant form of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) with potential protective activity against EGF receptor (EGFR/HER1) inhibitor-induced cutaneous toxicities. Upon topical application of the EGF ointment, EGF locally activates EGFR, thereby abrogating EGFR inhibition in the skin caused by systemic EGFR inhibiting agents. This may help inhibit the skin rash induced by EGFR antagonists. EGFR, a tyrosine kinase, plays a key role in maintaining epidermal integrity. Check for active clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)