TLDR Docetaxel and paclitaxel for breast cancer can cause permanent, severe hair loss.
The document discussed cases of irreversible and severe alopecia in patients who underwent cytotoxic therapy with docetaxel or paclitaxel for breast cancer. The study highlighted that these chemotherapeutic agents, commonly used in breast cancer treatment, could lead to significant and permanent hair loss, which is a distressing side effect for patients. The findings underscored the need for healthcare providers to inform patients about this potential outcome and consider it when planning treatment regimens.
40 citations,
September 2007 in “Bone marrow transplantation” Certain chemotherapy drugs can cause permanent hair loss in stem cell transplant patients.
159 citations,
July 2006 in “Endocrine Reviews” Estrogens significantly influence hair growth by interacting with receptors in hair follicles and may help regulate the hair growth cycle.
141 citations,
September 2016 in “European Journal of Dermatology” Taxane chemotherapy can cause skin, hair, and nail side effects, which are often under-reported and can affect patient quality of life.
218 citations,
January 2013 in “The Lancet Oncology” Chemotherapy causes hair loss by damaging hair follicles and stem cells, with more research needed for prevention and treatment.
23 citations,
December 2015 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Permanent hair loss after bone marrow transplant can be caused by chemotherapy or chronic graft-versus-host disease.
14 citations,
January 2013 in “Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Some cancer treatments can cause permanent hair loss.
31 citations,
March 2017 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Some breast cancer patients developed permanent hair loss after chemotherapy and hormonal therapy, showing patterns similar to common baldness and alopecia areata.