TLDR Scalp cooling is an effective and safe way to prevent hair loss from chemotherapy, with manageable side effects and low risk of scalp cancer.
The document reviewed the use of scalp cooling to manage chemotherapy-induced alopecia, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Scalp cooling, used since the 1970s, had limited use in the US due to safety concerns, particularly the risk of scalp metastases. However, two recent US prospective studies supported its efficacy and safety, especially for taxane-based chemotherapy regimens. The US FDA cleared two scalp-cooling devices, and various cold caps were available for rental. Adverse effects included scalp pain, headache, and chills but were generally tolerable. Retrospective data indicated a low incidence of scalp metastases, suggesting that safety concerns should not hinder the use of scalp cooling. Logistic challenges included device availability, insurance coverage, and integration into infusion center workflows.
110 citations,
August 2014 in “International journal of cancer” Scalp cooling significantly reduces chemotherapy-induced hair loss.
64 citations,
July 2011 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Scalp cooling can prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss, and certain treatments can speed up hair regrowth, but more research is needed for better treatments.
97 citations,
September 2006 in “Pharmaceutical Research” No treatment fully prevents hair loss from chemotherapy yet.
159 citations,
September 2001 in “European Journal of Cancer Care” Chemotherapy-induced hair loss significantly affects patients' well-being, and nurses are key in helping them cope, but more research is needed to find effective treatments.
March 2024 in “Research Square (Research Square)” Scalp cooling therapy helps preserve hair during chemotherapy for most patients.
17 citations,
June 2020 in “Anais brasileiros de dermatologia/Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Scalp cooling is an effective way to prevent hair loss from chemotherapy.
59 citations,
August 2018 in “The oncologist” Some breast cancer patients still experience hair loss three years after chemotherapy, especially with taxane-based treatments.
4 citations,
March 2023 in “Current Oncology” Scalp cooling is the only FDA-approved method to prevent hair loss from chemotherapy, but other treatments like minoxidil and PRP are being tested.
September 2022 in “Concilium” Scalp cooling effectively prevents chemotherapy-induced hair loss but requires better pain management.
