Permanent Alopecia in Breast Cancer Patients: Role of Taxanes and Endocrine Therapies.

Permanent chemotherapy-induced alopecia (PCIA) has been described following high-dose chemotherapy regimens for allogeneic bone marrow transplants; however, reports of PCIA in breast cancer patients are increasing. Many prior reports involve treatment with taxanes, but the role of endocrine therapies has not been well defined. Permanent alopecia in breast cancer patients appears to be a potential adverse effect of taxanes and endocrine therapies. Although the cytotoxic effects of taxanes may lead to permanent hair loss, the influence of endocrine therapies on the remaining follicles may affect the pattern of hair loss. Further characterization of these cases may elucidate risk factors for developing permanent alopecia, allowing for more appropriate risk stratification and counseling. We describe 3 patients with breast cancer who experienced PCIA following chemotherapy with taxanes.