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Surgical interventions for the treatment of radiation‐induced alopecia in pediatric practice
Author(s) -
RannanEliya Yi Fan,
RannanEliya Sahan,
Graham Kenneth,
Pizer Barry,
McDowell Heather P.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.20689
Subject(s) - cosmesis , medicine , scalp , radiation therapy , reconstructive surgery , disease , psychological intervention , surgery , population , dermatology , general surgery , psychiatry , pathology , environmental health
Permanent alopecia can occur following treatment for pediatric malignant disease, especially cranial irradiation, resulting in identity and self‐image problems. This late effect is usually addressed through external cosmesis and psychological adjustment. Surgical options are less commonly utilized. The experience of reconstructive procedures in patients at RLC NHS Trust, Alder Hey with alopecia is presented. Four patients had scalp tissue expansion and one had hair transplantation. The reconstructive options available are discussed as well as the potential opportunities and difficulties in this population. Post‐radiotherapy alopecia can be successfully addressed by reconstructive surgery, and should be considered more often in this population. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:731–736. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.