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Adverse Hair Reactions to New Targeted Therapies for Cancer
J F Mir-Bonafé1, D Saceda-Corralo2, S Vañó-Galván2
1Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España.
Abstract:
The advent of immune targeted therapies for cancer has radically changed the treatment and prognosis of many cancers. These drugs are called targeted therapies because they target specific pathophysiological mechanisms of cancer. This paradigm shift in cancer treatment, however, has resulted in new adverse dermatologic effects involving both the skin and its appendages. In the case of hair, targeted drugs can cause immune alterations and changes in hair growth, color, and shape. Because most targeted therapies are new, there is no single document describing all these adverse effects. We performed an exhaustive review of the literature to characterize adverse hair effects associated with the use of targeted therapies.
Insights
Targeted cancer therapies can cause unique hair changes. This review details adverse hair effects from these innovative immune-targeting drugs, aiding clinical understanding.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Immune targeted therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment.
- These therapies can cause novel dermatologic side effects, including hair changes.
- Existing literature lacks a comprehensive overview of these adverse hair effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and characterize adverse hair effects associated with targeted cancer therapies.
- To consolidate information on hair-related side effects from various targeted drugs.
- To provide a reference for clinicians managing these side effects.
Main Methods:
- Exhaustive literature search was performed.
- Studies reporting hair changes in patients receiving targeted therapies were included.
- Data on hair growth, color, and shape alterations were extracted.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies can induce significant alterations in hair growth, including alopecia and hypertrichosis.
- Changes in hair color (e.g., graying) and texture (e.g., wiry or curly hair) are commonly observed.
- The specific hair effects vary depending on the targeted therapy used.
Conclusions:
- Adverse hair effects are a notable consequence of immune targeted cancer therapies.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for patient counseling and management.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and develop interventions for these side effects.
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