Effectiveness of Scalp Cooling to Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia in Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia could cause significant psychological changes, affecting patients' quality of life and their capacity to cope with the disease.

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of scalp cooling (SC) to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia in patients with breast cancer and to compare the use of automated versus nonautomated therapy delivery devices.

METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (through PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from their inception to October 2022. A meta-analysis was performed to assess the effects of SC to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia in patients with breast cancer using fixed-effects models to calculate the pooled relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

The 8 included studies showed a 43% reduction in the risk of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.50-0.64) after the use of SC. Moreover, the use of automated SC devices showed a 47% reduction (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.45-0.60) in the risk of chemotherapy-induced alopecia versus a 43% reduction in the risk of chemotherapy-induced alopecia for nonautomated SC devices (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.44-0.70).

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that SC significantly reduced the risk of chemotherapy-induced alopecia.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Local cold application is a nonpharmacologic therapy that may provide a useful intervention to reduce hair loss and contribute to the psychological well-being of women. Scalp cooling contributes directly to reducing concern about altered body image and to reducing anxiety related to self-concept.

Results of the Dutch scalp cooling registry in 7424 patients: analysis of determinants for scalp cooling efficacy

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a common consequence of cancer treatment with a high psychological impact on patients and can be prevented by scalp cooling (SC). With this multi-center patient series, we examined the results for multiple currently used chemotherapy regimens to offer an audit into the real-world determinants of SC efficacy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry collected data on 7424 scalp-cooled patients in 68 Dutch hospitals. Nurses and patients completed questionnaires on patient characteristics, chemotherapy, and SC protocol. Patient-reported primary outcomes at the start of the final SC session included head cover (HC) (eg, wig/scarf) use (yes/no) as a surrogate for patient satisfaction with SC and WHO score for alopecia (0 = no hair loss up to 3 = total alopecia) as a measure of scalp cooling success. Exhaustive logistic regression analysis stratified by chemotherapy regimen was implemented to examine characteristics and interactions associated with the SC result.

RESULTS

Overall, over half of patients (n = 4191, 56%) did not wear a HC and 53% (n = 3784/7183) reported minimal hair loss (WHO score 0/1) at the start of their final treatment. Outcomes were drug and dose dependent. Besides the chemotherapy regimen, this study did not identify any patient characteristic or lifestyle factor as a generic determinant influencing SC success. For non-gender specific cancers, gender played no statistically significant role in HC use nor WHO score.

CONCLUSIONS

Scalp cooling is effective for the majority of patients. The robust model for evaluating the drug and dose-specific determinants of SC efficacy revealed no indications for changes in daily practice, suggesting factors currently being overlooked. As no correlation was identified between the determinants explaining HC use and WHO score outcomes, new methods for evaluation are warranted.

The efficacy of HDDPiW-jSB solution on docetaxel-induced alopecia of rats

OBJECTIVE

Chemotherapy induced alopecia (CIA) is one of the most common side effects in cancer patients, however; it doesn't have an effective pharmacological treatment yet. In this study we aimed to research the protective effect of newly developed HDDPiW-jSB solution on docetaxel (DTX) -induced rat alopecia model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Docetaxel (10 mg/kg/week) was administered to the 6-8 months old rats for three weeks. HDDPiW-jSB solution was applied once or twice a week for 4 weeks beginning prior to one week before DTX. Rat hair follicles were evaluated with hematoxylin-eosin and immune-histochemical staining.

RESULTS

In the first stage of this study, alopecia was successfully developed by DTX (10 mg/kg/three times) application. In the second stage of the study, application of HDDPiW-jSB solution, did not change the study parameters significantly on control group. The solution improved the anagen hair follicle count and Bcl-2 levels in the skin samples of DTX-induced alopecic rat groups, especially when applied twice weekly. Additionally, level of Caspase 3 was decreased. HDDPiW-jSB solution was safe when applied on the skin.

CONCLUSION

Topical HDDPiW-jSB solution could be effective and safe for the protection of DTX-induced alopecia in rat models.

Ethical, legal, organizational and social issues related to the use of scalp cooling for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced alopecia: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Scalp cooling (SC) aims to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia. The goal of this systematic review is to tackle ethical, legal, organizational and social issues related to SC.

METHODS

A critical appraisal of the literature was carried out using a systematic review design. MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched up until 2 June 2021. Studies addressing these aspects in English or Spanish were considered. Representatives of both patient associations and professional scientific societies related to the topic participated in the design of the protocol and the review of the findings.

RESULTS

A total of 17 studies were included. Articles were critically appraised using the MMAT and SANRA. Findings were organized into four categories: (1) ethical aspects focused on equal access, gender equity and doctor-patient communication supported by Patient Decision Aids (PtDAs); (2) patient perspective and acceptability; (3) professional perspective and acceptability; (4) organizational aspects focused on accessibility and feasibility.

CONCLUSION

Cancer patients' expectations when using SC need to be adjusted to reduce the potential distress associated with hair loss. PtDAs could help patients clarify their values and preferences regarding SC. Equal access to technology should be guaranteed.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

In this systematic review, the representatives of the patient associations (Ms. María Luz Amador Muñoz of the Spanish Association Against Cancer [AECC] and Ms. Catiana Martinez Cánovas of the Spanish Breast Cancer Federation [FECMA]) participated in the review of the study protocol, as well as in the results, discussion and conclusions, making their contributions. In the type of design of these studies (systematic reviews), it is not usual to have the direct participation of patients, but in this one, we have done so, as it is a systematic review that is part of a report of the Spanish Network of Health Technology Assessment Agencies (ETS).

Improving preparation for scalp cooling: Learning from women undergoing chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer-The COOL study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This study set out to understand the experiences and expectations of scalp cooling among women with early-stage breast cancer. The objective was to develop patient co-produced information resources to better inform and prepare women considering scalp cooling during chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND

Treatment-induced alopecia is a common concern among women preparing for chemotherapy. Evidence indicates that many women feel inadequately prepared for scalp cooling, resulting in potentially mitigable distress and disappointment.

DESIGN

A single-site, sequential, explanatory mixed-methods design was used. Participants included women with early-stage breast cancer who had previously or were currently using, scalp cooling. Women completed an online survey exploring scalp cooling experiences and expectations and self-selecting participants took part in one semi-structured, audio-recorded interview. Guidelines for Good Reporting of a Mixed Methods Study were followed.

RESULTS

Forty-nine women (69%) consented to take part in the survey and 23 took part in an interview. Most women described losing more hair than they expected. Many described feeling inadequately prepared for the discomfort of scalp cooling; the additional time needed to accommodate scalp cooling during treatment and, that they lacked information about self- care to help minimise hair loss. Importantly, several participants described variability in nurses' knowledge and practical skills regarding scalp cooling.

CONCLUSIONS

To optimise experience of scalp cooling, women need comprehensive preparatory information about variability in efficacy of scalp cooling; time needed to accommodate scalp cooling; hair care during treatment, and the potential discomfort associated with it. They also need nurses to be confident and well informed about scalp cooling processes.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Our study led to the development of online, patient co-produced resources to help prepare and inform women considering using scalp cooling; and an online scalp cooling training module and checklist for nurses. Links to the resources are included in the manuscript.

Effect of Scalp Cooling on the Pharmacokinetics of Paclitaxel

Simple Summary

This study investigated the correlation between scalp cooling used to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia and the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel in female cancer patients with a solid tumor. In a prospective cohort study, 14 patients who were treated with weekly paclitaxel and scalp cooling were able to undergo pharmacokinetic sampling of paclitaxel during one cycle of treatment. In comparison to a control cohort of 24 patients treated with weekly paclitaxel without scalp cooling, our data showed that scalp cooling used concomitantly with one course of paclitaxel did not reduce or increase the clearance of paclitaxel. Therefore, it is unlikely that scalp cooling influences paclitaxel efficacy or toxicity. Finally, despite scalp cooling, half of the patients in our study developed a form of hair loss. Importantly, neither an association with difference in paclitaxel clearance nor change in hair loss was found.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA), a side effect with high impact, can be prevented by cooling the scalp during the administration of some cytotoxic drugs. However, the effects of this prolonged scalp cooling on the pharmacokinetics of chemotherapy have never been investigated. In this study, we compared the pharmacokinetics of the widely used chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (weekly dose of 80–100 mg/m²) in female patients with solid tumors using concomitant scalp cooling (n = 14) or not (n = 24). Blood samples were collected in all patients for pharmacokinetic analyses up to 6 h after one course of paclitaxel administration. The primary endpoint was the clearance (L/h) of paclitaxel. Paclitaxel clearance—expressed as relative difference in geometric means—was 6.8% (90% CI: −16.7% to 4.4%) lower when paclitaxel was administered with concomitant scalp cooling versus paclitaxel infusions without scalp cooling. Within the subgroup of patients using scalp cooling, paclitaxel clearance was not statistically significantly different between patients with CIA (alopecia grade 1 or 2) and those without CIA. Hence, scalp cooling did not negatively influence the clearance of paclitaxel treatment.

[Alopecia and cancers: From basics to clinical practice]

Alopecia, although long considered an unavoidable consequence of cancer therapy, currently presents a multifaceted challenge. The knowledge of the physiology of the hair and consequently of the pathophysiology of alopecia has led to show that there is not one but several types of alopecia. Transposed to the world of oncology, different types of alopecia and subsequently molecular pathways have been characterized, allowing a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Thus, in patients with cancer, alopecia can be iatrogenic (chemotherapies, endocrine therapies, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, radiotherapy, surgery) or directly the consequence of the disease itself (malnutrition, scalp metastases, paraneoplastic syndromes). Knowledge of the incriminated mechanism(s) could thus make it possible to deploy an appropriate care component, whether on the preventive or curative sides or in terms of supportive care. These are particularly essential regarding the psychological repercussions caused by alopecia, with significant consequences on the quality of life of patients and with a potential impact on treatment compliance. On the preventive side, the last few years have seen the advent of the automated scalp cooling therapy, supported by several randomized clinical trials. On the curative side, several therapeutic proposals are currently deployed or under development in order to provide relevant treatments.

Safety and efficacy of scalp cooling system in preventing chemotherapy induced alopecia - A single center prospective study

BACKGROUND

Alopecia is one of the most common and afflicting side effects associated with chemotherapy treatments. Scalp-cooling devices were introduced to reduce hair loss and improve the hair volume recovery in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

METHODS

This is a single center, prospective observational study conducted from 01 February 2019 to 31 January 2020, in patients undergoing chemotherapy for various cancers. The extent of alopecia was assessed by two independent clinicians by reviewing the photographs taken at baseline, during each session, and 4 weeks from the last scalp cooling session.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients (female: 94 and male: 6) were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 53.5 years. Of 100 patients, 40 received anthracycline based chemotherapy, 45 received taxane based chemotherapy, 9 received both, and 6 received other chemotherapeutic agents. By the end of the study, 31 patients experienced grade 0-1 alopecia and 69 patients had grade 2 alopecia. On multivariate analysis, chemotherapeutic agent was found to be an independent factor for delaying the onset of Grade 2 alopecia (anthracycline vs taxanes (OR: 0.71; 95% CI (0.51-0.92); P ≤ 0.04)The most common adverse events reported during the scalp cooling sessions were chills (7%), and chills with headaches (6%). Scalp metastasis and scalp cooling discontinuation rates were observed to be very rare. No serious adverse events related to device were observed.

CONCLUSION

Scalp cooling was observed to be more effective in reducing chemotherapy-induced alopecia in patients treated with taxane-based chemotherapy over anthracyclines. Scalp cooling sessions were well tolerated. Scalp metastasis and scalp cooling discontinuation was observed to be very rare.

Impact of chemotherapy regimen and sequence on the effectiveness of scalp cooling for alopecia prevention

PURPOSE

Scalp cooling (SC) is the most reliable method for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced alopecia. However, it remains unclear if its effectiveness is related to the chemotherapy regimen, sequence, and frequency. This study aims to evaluate SC performance among breast cancer patients who received different chemotherapy regimens.

METHODS

The medical records of all consecutive patients undergoing curative-intent chemotherapy and receiving at least one SC session using the DigniCap® System from 2016-2020 in a private Mexican hospital were retrospectively reviewed. SC effectiveness according to chemotherapy regimen was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Successful alopecia prevention was defined as grade 0-1 alopecia (< 50% hair loss not requiring the use of a wig or headpiece) according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0.

RESULTS

SC adequately prevented alopecia in 56/76 (74%) patients. All 12/12 (100%) and 15/17 (88%) patients receiving paclitaxel-only and docetaxel-based chemotherapy, respectively, had effective hair preservation. SC was successful in 7/16 (44%) patients when sequential chemotherapy started with anthracyclines and 22/30 (73%) when paclitaxel was administered upfront. Considering dose-dense regimens, 9/15 (60%) had satisfactory hair retention, and chemotherapy sequence was not clearly related to SC success.

CONCLUSION

SC was highly effective in preventing alopecia, particularly with taxane-based regimens. Notably, better outcomes were observed when sequential chemotherapy started with taxanes followed by anthracyclines than when the inverse order was administered, suggesting that the chemotherapy sequence, rather than chemotherapeutic agents per se, might have a more significant impact on the effectiveness of SC for the prevention of alopecia.

Cooling-mediated protection from chemotherapy drug-induced cytotoxicity in human keratinocytes by inhibition of cellular drug uptake

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) represents the most distressing side-effect for cancer patients. Scalp cooling is currently the only treatment to combat CIA, yet little is known about its cytoprotective effects in human hair follicles (HF). We have previously established in vitro human keratinocyte models to study the effects of taxanes and anthracyclines routinely-used clinically and reported that cooling markedly-reduced or even completely-prevented cytotoxicity in a temperature dependent manner. Using these models (including HF-derived primary keratinocytes), we now demonstrate that cooling markedly attenuates cellular uptake of the anthracyclines doxorubicin and epirubicin to reduce or prevent drug-mediated human keratinocyte cytotoxicity. We show marked reduction in drug uptake and nuclear localization qualitatively by fluorescence microscopy. We have also devised a flow cytometry-based methodology that permitted semi-quantitative analysis of differences in drug uptake, which demonstrated that cooling can reduce drug uptake by up to ~8-fold in comparison to normal/physiological temperature, an effect that was temperature-dependent. Our results provide evidence that attenuation of cellular drug uptake represents at least one of the mechanisms underpinning the ability of cooling to rescue human keratinocytes from chemotherapy drug-cytotoxicity, thus supporting the clinical efficacy of scalp cooling.

Dermatologic management of oncotherapy side effects: A proposed algorithm

Since the introduction of the first chemotherapeutic regimens for the treatment of oncological disease, hundreds of drugs have been approved for cancer treatment and many more are under investigation. The development of newer drugs such as target therapies, immuno-oncotherapies, and hormonal therapies has increased in specificity with the development of smaller molecules and more selective targets. Cutaneous side effects are now well known for both standard chemotherapy and targeted therapies. The correct diagnosis and management of these effects are of vital importance both to optimize therapeutic success rates and to reduce the patient's suffering. In fact, the appearance of a cutaneous adverse event can be responsible for a reduction in drug dosage or worse its suspension. In order to achieve this objective, we propose a management algorithm, based on three different steps, before, during, and after the oncological treatments, respectively. Our proposal underlines the importance of correct skin care measures to limit or reduce the severity of side effects.

"Randomised controlled trial of scalp cooling for the prevention of chemotherapy induced alopecia"

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCT) of scalp cooling (SC) to prevent chemotherapy induced alopecia (CIA) did not evaluate its effect on hair regrowth (HR) and was conducted in a predominantly taxane (T) treated population. We conducted an RCT of SC in a setting of anthracycline (A) and taxane chemotherapy (CT) and assessed its effect on CIA and HR.

Methods

Non-metastatic breast cancer women undergoing (neo) adjuvant CT were randomized to receive SC using the Paxman scalp cooling system during every cycle of CT, or no SC. The primary end point (PEP) was successful hair preservation (HP) assessed clinically and by review of photographs after CT. HR was assessed at 6 and 12 weeks.

Results

51 patients were randomized to SC (34) or control arm (17) in a 2:1 ratio. Twenty-five (49%) patients received A followed by T and the two arms were balanced with respect to this factor. HP rate was significantly higher in SC arm compared to control arm (56.3% vs 0%, P = 0.000004). HR was higher in SC arm compared to control at 6 weeks (89% vs 12%; P < 0.001) and 12 weeks (100% vs 59%, P = 0.0003). Loss of hair at PEP evaluation, which was a quality of life measure, was significantly lower in SC versus control arm (45% vs 82%, P = 0.016). There were no grade 3–4 cold related adverse effects.

Conclusions

Women with breast cancer receiving A or T chemotherapy receiving SC were significantly more likely to have less than 50% hair loss after CT, superior hair regrowth and improvement in patient reported outcomes, with acceptable tolerance. It merits wider usage.

Efficacy of Scalp Cooling in Preventing and Recovering From Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia in Breast Cancer Patients: The HOPE Study

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of scalp-cooling devices in preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia in Japanese breast cancer patients and investigate whether a scalp-cooling device improves hair volume recovery over a 12 weeks period after completing chemotherapy. Methods: This multicenter controlled trial included women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy in Japan between February 2016 and March 2018. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with no alopecia at the end of chemotherapy. The secondary endpoint included hair volume at 12 weeks after completing chemotherapy. Results: A total of 48 patients were enrolled; of them, 34 and 14 were sequentially allocated to the scalp-cooling group using the Paxman Hair Loss Prevention System and the control group, respectively. There was no significant difference in average age between the scalp-cooling and the control groups (50.0 ± 9.6 vs. 49.0 ± 9.0 years). More than 50% of patients in each group had stage II breast cancer (scalp-cooling group: 53.1%; control group: 64.3%), more than 90% received adjuvant chemotherapy (scalp-cooling group: 96.9%; control group: 92.9%), and more than 60% were treated with a docetaxel/cyclophosphamide regimen (scalp-cooling group: 75.0%; control group: 64.3%). There were more patients judged to have no alopecia at the end of chemotherapy in the scalp-cooling group than in the control group (26.7% [8/30] vs. 0% [0/13]; P = 0.011). The proportion of patients with alopecia who experienced an increase in hair volume of ≥50% within 12 weeks duration after chemotherapy was 85.7% (24/28) in the scalp-cooling group and 50.0% (6/12) in the control group. No patient developed serious adverse events related to the scalp-cooling device. Conclusions: The use of a scalp-cooling device prevented alopecia with acceptable safety for Japanese patients. In addition, scalp cooling resulted in faster recovery of hair volume after chemotherapy, even in patients for whom scalp cooling failed to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia.

The efficacy and tolerability of scalp cooling in preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia in patients with breast cancer receiving anthracycline and taxane-based chemotherapy in an Asian setting

BACKGROUND

Scalp cooling has been shown in several studies to be an effective method in preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). Data on the use of scalp cooling in Asian countries are limited, and evidence for its use and efficacy among our patients are not available.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of scalp cooling among breast cancer patients in our study population.

METHODS

Consecutive breast cancer patients receiving FE₇₅C, FE₁₀₀C, FE₁₀₀C-D, docetaxel₇₅ or docetaxel, and cyclophosphamide (TC) at our treatment center were recruited and allocated to the treatment (scalp cooling, DigniCapTM system) or control group in this prospective nonrandomized controlled study. The assessment of alopecia was carried out using the World Health Organization grading system and clinical photographs.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were recruited, but only 25 completed the study and were evaluable for analysis. Five of 12 patients (42%) in the scalp cooling group managed to preserve hair. Two of three patients who received FE₇₅C and TC regimens had minimal hair loss. All patients treated with FE₁₀₀C had severe hair loss. Half of all patients who received scalp cooling throughout chemotherapy rated the treatment as reasonably well tolerated. The most common reason for discontinuing scalp cooling was intolerance to its side effects.

CONCLUSION

Scalp cooling is potentially effective in reducing CIA caused by docetaxel, TC, and FE₇₅C chemotherapy regimen. However, it was not well tolerated by our study population. The dropout rate was high, and this needs to be taken into consideration when pursuing further trials in a similar setting.

Improving Information Provision on Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia and Scalp Cooling: A Comprehensive Approach Including A Website and Web-Based Decision Tool

Objective

Alopecia is a frequently occurring side effect of chemotherapy and has high impact on many patients. Currently, scalp cooling is the only method to prevent this chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) and it is effective in about half of the patients. Since determinants of the success are largely unknown, all patients should be prepared for potential hair loss. The objective was to provide up-to-date online information about CIA and scalp cooling to support patients in coping with CIA and in their choice regarding scalp cooling.

Methods

Essential aspects of delivering information and lack of information were identified during focus groups, interviews, and a questionnaire survey among cancer patients, and in discussions with nurses.

Results

The obtained information was used to develop a website (www.scalpcooling.org) and a web-based tool. It combines scientific evidence and practical advice about CIA and regrowth of hair, scalp-cooling tolerance, efficacy and safety, as well as an overview of possible advantages and disadvantages. The web-based tool provides tailored information about the probability of CIA with and without scalp cooling in particular chemotherapy regimens. Besides, the tool offers patients' support in decision-making by allowing them to reflect and consider their values and opinions about scalp cooling.

Conclusions

This comprehensive information is useful during nursing consultations.

Scalp Cooling in Daily Clinical Practice for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Curative Chemotherapy: A Multicenter Interventional Study

Objective:

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a common and distressful side effect, especially among breast cancer patients. Scalp cooling (SC) can reduce hair loss during anthracycline- and taxane-based chemotherapy. This study assessed the effectiveness of SC in daily clinical practice in three Italian oncology units.

Methods:

From 2014 to 2016, we prospectively included 220 female early-stage breast cancer patients undergoing curative chemotherapy in combination with SC using the Paxman device. Effectiveness was defined as the severity of hair loss according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Version 4.0 as follows: Grade 0, no hair loss; Grade 1, <50% hair loss not requiring a wig; and Grade 2, ≥50% hair loss at each cycle and at completion of chemotherapy. The tolerability and safety were also evaluated.

Results:

The overall success rate of SC (hair loss Grade 0–1) was 68%. Severe hair loss was avoided in 89% of women receiving taxane-based chemotherapy and in 78% of women receiving both anthracyclines and taxanes. Among women undergoing anthracycline-based chemotherapy, 47% experienced hair preservation. SC was well tolerated, as only 20 patients discontinued SC for reasons other than hair loss.

Conclusions:

Our study confirmed that SC provides a reliable chance for breast cancer patients to keep their hair during taxane- and/or anthracycline-based chemotherapy.

Hair Loss Prevention by a Scalp Cooling Device in Early Breast Cancer Patients: The Poliambulanza Preliminary Experience

BACKGROUND

The most effective agents in the treatment of breast cancer have a common side effect, the hair loss. Some studies reported a reduction of hair loss with the use of the scalp cooling device. Indeed, it decreases the drug accumulation in the hair follicles. We report our preliminary experience with a scalp cooling device in reducing chemotherapy-induced alopecia and related distress in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy.

METHODS

Hair loss grading and treatment tolerability were evaluated during chemotherapy every 21 days and 3 weeks after the last cycle of chemotherapy via Dean's scale by patients and operators and a comfort analogic scale by patients. We administered the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaire at the baseline and at the end of treatment to assess the distress related to chemotherapy- induced alopecia.

RESULTS

Among the 46 patients identified, 27 accepted the device. The eligible chemotherapy regimens included docetaxel+cyclophosphamide (TC), doxorubicin+cyclophosphamide (AC) and paclitaxel (P) weekly+trastuzumab (T). 24 pts (89%) completed the treatment; 3 pts (11%) treated with AC prematurely interrupted use of the scalp-cooling device due to inefficacy. After the last cycle of chemotherapy, the number of patient who perceived a HL < grade 2 was 16 (59%). The hair retention reported by operators has been higher (78%). 81.5% of patients well tolerated the treatment.

CONCLUSION

In our study, the scalp-cooling device reduced chemotherapy-induced alopecia in taxane- based chemotherapy. Furthermore, it suggests a discordance in hair loss perception between patients and operators.

COOLHAIR: a prospective randomized trial to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of scalp cooling in patients undergoing (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer

PURPOSE

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a distressing side effect for women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Scalp cooling is a method aiming to prevent CIA, but its efficacy is not well defined. Randomized trials until recently and at the time this trial was designed have been lacking.

METHODS

Patients undergoing (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer (EBC) were randomized to scalp cooling (CAP) or observation (NoCAP). All patients received 18-24 weeks of anthracycline- and/or taxane-based chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was patient-reported rate of alopecia according to a modified version of the Dean Scale. Hair preservation was defined as hair loss ≤ grade 2 (≤ 50%). Secondary endpoints were rate of alopecia determined by medical staff, rate of wig/scarf use, tolerability as well as quality of life (QoL).

RESULTS

Seventy-nine patients were randomized. Hair preservation was observed in 39.3% of patients in the CAP arm versus 0% in the NoCAP arm (p < 0.001). Wig/scarf use was significantly less frequent in the CAP group (40.7% vs 95.5% outside home before cycle 3, p < 0.001). The drop-out rate was 31.7% and 34.2% in the CAP and NoCAP arm, respectively. Main reasons for drop-out were hair loss, adverse events (CAP), and randomization into control arm. We observed no differences in efficacy between anthracycline-based and non-anthracycline-based regimens. QoL did not differ between the study arms.

CONCLUSIONS

This trial adds to the evidence that scalp cooling effectively prevents CIA in a meaningful number of patients. This option should be made available for patients undergoing (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy for EBC.

Barriers and enablers to implementing scalp cooling in Australia: a qualitative study of health professionals' attitudes to and experience with scalp cooling

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a common and distressing adverse event for patients. Scalp cooling to reduce this alopecia has been available in Europe for more than a decade, but only recently introduced in Australia. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore health professionals' perceptions of the barriers and enablers to the implementation of scalp cooling in Australian cancer centres.

METHODS

Using a qualitative methodology, telephone interviews were conducted with 21 health professionals working in a tumour stream where chemotherapy-induced alopecia is an adverse event of treatment. Participants were recruited from five centres in Australia where scalp cooling is currently available and one centre without access to the technology.

RESULTS

Four interrelated themes were identified: (1) health professional attitudes, (2) concerns for patient equity, (3) logistical considerations and (4) organisational support.

CONCLUSIONS

This qualitative study provides the first methodological exploration of Australian health professionals' perceptions of barriers and enablers to scalp cooling uptake. The results highlighted health professional support drives the introduction of scalp cooling. Integration of the technology requires adjustments to nursing practice to manage the increased time, workload and change in patient flow. Strategies to manage the change in practice and organisational support for change in work flow are essential for successful implementation into routine care.

The use of scalp cooling for chemotherapy-induced hair loss

Chemotherapy-induced hair loss is a common and distressing side effect of cancer therapy and is one of the major unmet challenges in cancer management. Scalp cooling can prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss in some cancer patients with solid tumours receiving certain chemotherapy regimens. Recent evidence indicates that this technique does not increase the risk of scalp metastasis. A reduction in post-chemotherapy infusion duration of scalp cooling and the advancement in cool cap technology may assist clinicians in promoting scalp cooling to cancer patients. This article discusses recent research, scalp cooling guidelines, products available and implications for nurses and their organisations in providing scalp cooling. It also considers recent advancements in identifying genes associated with chemotherapy-induced hair loss and international research collaborations including a registry and a 'chemotherapy-induced hair loss action group'--all striving to improve the patient experience of chemotherapy-induced hair loss.

Scalp cooling: a qualitative study to assess the perceptions and experiences of Australian patients with breast cancer

PURPOSE

Chemotherapy-induced hair loss is a common and distressing side effect. Scalp cooling is increasingly being used to reduce this hair loss. The purpose of this study was to explore patients' perceptions and experience of scalp cooling.

METHODS

Seventeen Australian women with a diagnosis of breast cancer participated in a focus group (n = 4) or a semi-structured interview (n = 3). Both scalp-cooled and non-scalp-cooled participant views were sought. Participant perceptions and experiences of scalp cooling were discussed as part of patients' overall chemotherapy experience and a thematic analysis conducted.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged from the data: (1) scalp cooling in the context of treatment decision-making discussions, (2) hair loss expectations vs. experiences, (3) treatment-related expectations vs. experiences, (4) the promise of faster regrowth and (5) satisfaction with scalp cooling and future scalp cooling decision-making considerations. Information during treatment decision-making was the primary factor that influenced whether patient expectations were met. Faster regrowth was a motivator to continue treatment. Efficacy and tolerability of scalp cooling influenced future hypothetical treatment decision-making for both scalp-cooled and non-scalp-cooled participants.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first in-depth exploration of patient attitudes to scalp cooling. The results highlight a need for accurate information regarding efficacy and tolerability as well as hair care information to assist patients with their treatment decision-making.

Simulation of scalp cooling by external devices for prevention of chemotherapy-induced alopecia

Hypothermia of the scalp tissue during chemotherapy treatment (scalp cooling) has been shown to reduce or prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss. In this study, numerical models are developed to investigate the interaction between different types of external scalp cooling devices and the human scalp tissue. This work focuses on improving methods of modeling scalp cooling devices as it relates specifically to the prevention of chemotherapy-induced alopecia. First, the cooling power needed for any type of device to achieve therapeutic levels of scalp hypothermia is investigated. Subsequently, two types of scalp cooling devices are simulated: a pre-cooled/frozen cap design and a liquid-cooled cap design. For an average patient, simulations show that 38.5W of heat must be extracted from the scalp tissue for this therapy in order to cool the hair follicle to 22°C. In practice, the cooling power must be greater than this amount to account for thermal losses of the device. Simulations show that pre-cooled and liquid-cooled cap designs result in different tissue temperatures over the course of the procedure. However, it is the temperature of the coolant that largely determines the resulting tissue temperature. Simulations confirm that the thermal resistance of the hair/air layer has a large impact on the resulting tissue temperatures. The results should be correlated with experimental data as an effort to determine the optimal parameter choices for this model.

Measurement of chemotherapy-induced alopecia-time to change

Data on chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) as a side effect of cancer treatment are scarce. CIA is given minimal attention in clinical trials and in the literature. However, when asking the patients with cancer for their opinion, CIA appears to have a major impact, particularly on body image and quality of life. Currently, there is no commonly used measure to evaluate CIA; It is time to improve the management and measurement of CIA.

Familiarity, opinions, experiences and knowledge about scalp cooling: a Dutch survey among breast cancer patients and oncological professionals

Objective:

Scalp cooling (SC) is applied to reduce chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). The aim of this study was to investigate patients’ familiarity and opinions and oncological professionals’ attitude and knowledge about SC in the Netherlands.

Methods:

Ex breast cancer patients, nurses and medical oncologists (MDs) from SC and non-SC hospitals filled out questionnaires.

Results:

The majority of MDs and nurses were satisfied with the results of SC, as were SC patients. Over 33% of MDs and nurses perceived their knowledge level insufficient to inform patients about effectiveness, which was over 43% for information about safety. MDs main reason to not apply SC was doubt about effectiveness and safety. Nurses generally offered SC to a minority of eligible patients. Patients were frequently unfamiliar with SC before diagnosis. Seventy percent of SC patients with insufficient results (20/52) reported to mind it very much. With expected success rates of 35% and 50%, respectively, 36% and 54% of patients would use SC again.

Conclusion:

Room for improvement has been shown for both patients’ familiarity and oncological professionals’ knowledge about SC. Sharing knowledge about results, safety and patients’ experiences will improve patient counseling and SC availability. The results of this survey led to the development of a national standard on CIA and SC.

No effect of scalp cooling on survival among women with breast cancer

Scalp cooling can prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia in some cancer patients. It is not used in all countries. No data are available regarding its impact, if any, on survival. The aim of this study was to compare overall survival according to whether or not scalp cooling was used during neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy for non-metastatic breast cancer. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1,370 women with non-metastatic invasive breast carcinoma who received chemotherapy in the neoadjuvant or adjuvant setting. A total of 553 women who used scalp cooling came from a tertiary breast cancer clinic in Quebec City (diagnosed between 1998 and 2002) and 817 were treated in other hospitals in the province of Quebec (between 1998 and 2003) where scalp cooling was not routinely available. Overall survival of women who used scalp cooling and those who did not was compared using Cox proportional hazards models. Median follow-up for the scalp-cooled and the non-scalp-cooled groups was 6.3 years and 8.0 years, respectively. Overall mortality was no different (adjusted hazard ratio 0.89, 95 % confidence interval: 0.68-1.17, p = 0.40) among scalp-cooled women, compared to those not getting scalp cooling. Among women getting neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy for non-metastatic breast cancer, scalp cooling used to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia had no negative effect on survival. To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare survival of women who used scalp cooling to that of women who did not.

Scalp cooling: management option for chemotherapy-induced alopecia

Chemotherapy is increasingly being administered as a treatment for cancer and with it are a number of possible side effects. One, which has a negative impact on a patient's quality of life and their self-esteem, is that of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). A side effect of which, for some, could be prevented by the use of scalp cooling, dependent on the regimen being administered and patient choice. This article explores the issue of CIA from the patient's perspective and scalp cooling as a preventative measure, along with a review of the evidence around the risk associated with developing scalp metastases following scalp cooling. It also discusses why scalp cooling should be available for both male and female patients; along with the potential impact scalp cooling may have on clinical areas delivering chemotherapy.

Successful reduction of alopecia induced by anthracycline and taxane containing adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer - clinical evaluation of sensor-controlled scalp cooling

Background

Scalp cooling is a long known method to reduce chemotherapy-induced alopecia in cancer patients with solid tumors. Due to a progress in this method, a medical device enabling individual feedback-controlled temperature regulation was evaluated.

Between June 2011 and December 2012, 83 breast cancer patients were included. Evaluation was focussed on the quantification of alopecia, satisfaction and side effects of the scalp cooling system in (neo-) adjuvant chemotherapy regimens. Alopecia quantification was done by patient evaluation and experts rating.

Findings

Based on patient hair loss evaluations, the mean overall success rate of scalp cooling (<50% hair loss) in (neo-) adjuvant chemotherapy was at 52.6%. 51.7% of patients in (neo-) adjuvant CT did not need head covers. In 51.7% of patients in (neo-) adjuvant chemotherapy hair regrowth occurred. Patient satisfaction rate was between VAS 70 and 80 (0–100, where 100 is completely satisfied).

Conclusion

The evaluation demonstrates that feedback-controlled scalp cooling provides a good chance for breast cancer patients to keep their hair even during (neo-)adjuvant chemotherapies, which are known to cause severe to complete alopecia without scalp cooling.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of scalp cooling to reduce chemotherapy-induced alopecia

BACKGROUND

Alopecia is a frequently occurring side effect of chemotherapy that often can be prevented by cooling the scalp during the infusion. This study compared effects and costs of scalp cooling with usual general oncological care, i.e. purchasing a wig or head cover.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Scalp-cooled patients (n = 160) were compared with non-scalp-cooled patients (n = 86) at 15 Dutch hospitals. Patients were enrolled prior to anthracycline and/or taxane-based chemotherapy for several types of cancer between 2007 and 2008. Cost-effectiveness of scalp cooling compared with that of usual care was determined by the ratio of costs to quality adjusted life years (QALYs). Costs for scalp cooling (machines and nursing time), hair dressers, wigs and head covers were estimated from a societal perspective. QALYs were measured using the Short Form-36.

RESULTS

Scalp cooling reduced the use of a wig or head cover by 40%, but wigs were still purchased unnecessarily by 38% of scalp-cooled patients. Average societal costs decreased therefore only by €269 per patient due to scalp cooling (p = 0.02). Given the eligibility for scalp cooling at the time, the insignificant difference in QALYs resulted from a balance of the benefits for those patients with successful scalp cooling and those without success. For the Dutch, given the generally accepted threshold of willingness to pay for a QALY (between €20 000 and €40 000), scalp cooling was cost-effective, therefore justifying the choice of scalp cooling or purchasing a wig or head cover.

CONCLUSION

Given the right indication, cost-effectiveness might be improved further by postponing wig and head cover purchases, by improving scalp cooling efficacy, as well as using the scalp cooling capacity more intensively.

Efficacy and tolerability of two scalp cooling systems for the prevention of alopecia associated with docetaxel treatment

PURPOSE

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is very distressing for a patient and may have an impact on treatment decisions. On docetaxel-based therapy, alopecia occurs in a substantial proportion of patients. We aimed to investigate whether two different methods of scalp cooling can prevent hair loss.

METHODS

In this open-label, prospective, nonrandomized trial, patients with solid tumors receiving docetaxel in a palliative setting were allocated according to patients' preference to short-term cooling (over 45 min postinfusion) with a Paxman PSC-2 machine (PAX), with cold cap (CC), or no cooling. The combined endpoint was alopecia World Health Organisation (WHO) III or IV or the necessity to wear a wig. Study identifier is Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01008774.

RESULTS

Two hundred thirty-eight patients were included in the trial (128 patients PAX, 71 CC, and 39 no cooling). Number of cycles (median 4) and median docetaxel doses were similar across groups (55-60 mg/day on weekly therapy, 135-140 mg/day on 3-weekly therapy). Alopecia occurred with PAX, CC, and no cooling under 3-weekly docetaxel in 23, 27, and 74% and under weekly docetaxel in 7, 8, and 17%, respectively. Overall, cooling (PAX and CC combined) reduced risk of alopecia by 78% (hazard ratio 0.22; 95% confidence interval 0.12 to 0.41). CC and PAX prophylaxis led to the same degree of prevention of alopecia. Adverse events (AE) were reported in 5% (most frequently, sensation of cold), and 30 patients (13%) discontinued cooling measures after cycle 1.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first comparison published to date, both PAX and CC offer efficacious protection against hair loss, in particular when docetaxel is administered in a 3-weekly interval.

Impact of scalp cooling on chemotherapy-induced alopecia, wig use and hair growth of patients with cancer

INTRODUCTION

Cytotoxic therapy for patients with cancer frequently induces reversible, but long-lasting alopecia which might be prevented by scalp cooling. This study evaluates the effectiveness of scalp cooling with respect to the severity of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) and the purchase and use of wigs and head covers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this observational study, scalp-cooled patients (n = 160) were compared with non scalp-cooled patients (n = 86) with several types of cancer. Patients were enrolled in 15, mostly general hospitals prior to taxane and/or anthracycline-based chemotherapy. Patients completed four questionnaires between the start and one year after the last chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Severity of CIA, and purchasing and actually wearing wigs and head covers were significantly lower among scalp-cooled than non scalp-cooled patients. Overall, scalp cooling reduced the use of wigs and head covers by 40%. Among 84 scalp-cooled patients who purchased a wig (53%), only 52 patients actually wore it (62%), and they just wore it intensively (86% daily) for less than six months (80%). Especially young patients camouflaged CIA with a head cover instead of a wig.

DISCUSSION

The relatively long duration of CIA, the wish of many patients to camouflage or rather prevent it and the 40% reduction for head covering by scalp cooling, makes it a worthwhile supportive intervention. However, (cost-) effectiveness can be improved. Many scalp-cooled patients purchased a wig unnecessarily.

Radiation- and Chemotherapy-Induced Permanent Alopecia: Case Series

Background:

Radiation- and chemotherapy-induced alopecia is mostly temporary. However, permanent scalp alopecia is reported, albeit infrequently.

Objective:

The objective of this observational case series was to determine the kind and doses of chemotherapeutic agents and radiation in inducing permanent alopecia of the scalp.

Methods and Results:

Eleven patients referred to our department over a period of 3 years for permanent alopecia after chemotherapy/radiotherapy or combination therapy were included. A detailed medical and therapeutic history was obtained from each patient and from medical records. Photography was done, and the scalp biopsies were taken. Patients were divided into three groups according to the type of therapy. The first group received conditioning chemotherapy prior to bone marrow transplantation. The second group had radiation for brain tumors, and the third group received both.

Conclusion:

A comprehensive multicenter and multidisciplinary study is required to determine the definite causative agents, doses, and other cofactors that induce permanent alopecia following chemotherapy/radiotherapy, as well as the means to avoid this distressing outcome in surviving patients.

Short post-infusion scalp cooling time in the prevention of docetaxel-induced alopecia

PURPOSE

The patient impact of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is high. Scalp cooling is applied to reduce CIA. The potential optimum post-infusion cooling times (PICTs) are currently unknown.

METHODS

Scalp cooling was applied in 53 patients receiving docetaxel chemotherapy with 90-min PICT (observational part). Also 15 non-scalp-cooled patients were included. If hair preservation was observed in >80 % of the patients, randomisation between 45 and 90-min PICT was planned. Patients reported tolerance of scalp cooling and use of head covering.

RESULTS

Observational study: 81 % of scalp-cooled patients did not require head covering versus 27 % of non-scalp-cooled patients. Randomised study: 79 % of 38 patients with 90-min PICT did not need head covering versus 95 % of 38 patients with 45-min PICT (p = 0.04). Scalp cooling was very well tolerated (visual analogue scale = 79).

CONCLUSION

A 45-min PICT can be recommended in 3-weekly docetaxel regimens with a dose of 75 or 100 mg/m(2), administered in 60 min. The shorter PICT is a major advantage in time investment for patients. Patients (women and men) who receive docetaxel, except combined with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (taxotere, adriamycin and cyclophosphamide (TAC)) should be informed about the protective effect and high tolerability of scalp cooling in avoiding CIA.

Scalp cooling for hair preservation and associated characteristics in 1411 chemotherapy patients - results of the Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a frequently occurring side effect of cancer treatment with a high psychological impact which can be prevented by scalp cooling. With this multi-centre patient series we estimated the results of scalp cooling for currently used chemotherapies to provide patient information and we identified characteristics associated with the results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry collected data on scalp-cooled patients in 28 Dutch hospitals. Nurses and patients completed questionnaires on patients, chemotherapy and scalp cooling characteristics. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine associated characteristics of the scalp cooling result.

RESULTS

Overall, 50% of the 1411 scalp-cooled patients did not wear a head cover during their last chemotherapy session. Patients were satisfied with the results in 8% of cases after TAC chemotherapy and up to 95% after paclitaxel treatment. Besides type of chemotherapy, higher dose and shorter infusion time, older age, female gender and non-West-European type of hair significantly increased the proportion head cover use. Hair length, quantity, chemical manipulation (dyeing, waving, colouring), wetting hair before scalp cooling, and treatment with chemotherapy ever before did not influence the degree of head covering among patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Scalp cooling results as recorded in this open patient registry were positive for most regimens, justifying it's use by all eligible patients, except for those needing TAC. Lengthening infusion time may improve the results.