Oncological Therapies and Hair Disorders: A Narrative Approach on Permanent Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia. A Literature Review of Cancer-Related Therapies and Their Associated Hair and Scalp Disorders
June 2024
in “
British Journal of Dermatology
”
permanent chemotherapy-induced alopecia pCIA hair disorders scalp disorders cancer treatment breast cancer psychological impact self-esteem social interactions patient education post-treatment quality of life permanent hair loss chemotherapy hair loss hair and scalp issues cancer therapy mental health impact confidence social life patient information life after treatment
TLDR Permanent hair loss from chemotherapy significantly impacts patients' mental health and social life, highlighting the need for better patient education and support.
Permanent chemotherapy-induced alopecia (pCIA) is a significant and often under-communicated side effect of cancer treatment, affecting 15-30% of breast cancer patients. This narrative review highlights the experiences of two women who suffered from pCIA, emphasizing the severe psychological impact and the lack of adequate pre-treatment information. Both patients reported feeling misled about the temporary nature of hair loss and experienced profound effects on their self-esteem and social interactions. The review underscores the need for better patient education and support, as well as the importance of addressing post-treatment quality of life for cancer survivors.
