Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: A Comprehensive over View of Risk Factors, Impact, and Management Strategies

Abstract

Background: This study assessed the impact of chemotherapy on alopecia in 100 cancer patients, highlighting significant gender differences and drug-specific effects. The cohort consisted of 65 females (65%) and 35 males (35%), with no significant age difference between genders (p= 0.573). Alopecia was more severe in females, particularly with Adriamycin, 5-Fluorouracil, and Cisplatin, while males experienced higher alopecia with Gemcitabine and Capecitabine. Paclitaxel caused the most severe alopecia (mean severity: 6.00 ± 1.07). Depression scores were higher with drugs like Paclitaxel and Capecitabine, emphasizing the psychological burden of chemotherapy. Statistical analysis revealed a significant gender difference in the distribution of patients (p = 0.0027). The results underscore the need for personalized treatment plans to address both the physical and psychological side effects of chemotherapy, particularly in managing alopecia and depression across different chemotherapy agents.