Presentation, Impact and Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss: Scalp Cooling Potentials and Limitations

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) was a common and distressing side effect of cancer therapy, but it was nearly always reversible. Scalp cooling was the most effective method to reduce CIA, with most patients tolerating it well. Concerns about protecting malignant cells in the scalp were exaggerated. Scalp cooling was cost-effective compared to wigs and head covers. Research focused on optimizing cooling times and temperatures showed promise. However, scalp cooling was not effective for all patients, and further research was needed to identify success determinants. It was recommended that scalp cooling be available in every hospital, with patients being well-informed to make an informed choice.