Alopecia is a medical condition characterized by the loss of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. It can result from various factors including genetics, medical treatments, and underlying health conditions.
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Alopecia can be a side effect of chemotherapeutic drugs used in cancer treatment due to their impact on rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles.
There are different types of alopecia, such as alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder) and androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).
Management of alopecia may include topical treatments like minoxidil or systemic therapies depending on the type and cause.
Hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary, with regrowth often occurring after the completion of treatment.
Nurses should provide emotional support to patients experiencing alopecia as it can significantly impact their psychological well-being.
Review Questions
What common cancer therapy side effect leads to hair loss?
Name two types of alopecia and briefly describe them.
How might nurses assist patients coping with hair loss during chemotherapy?
Related terms
Chemotherapeutic Drugs: Medications used to treat cancer by killing or slowing the growth of cancerous cells.
Histamine Blockers: Drugs that reduce stomach acid production by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach lining.
Proton-Pump Inhibitors: Medications that decrease stomach acid production by inhibiting the enzyme system known as proton pumps.