Understanding Scalp Cooling: Beyond Breast Cancer

When most people hear about scalp cooling, breast cancer is often the first diagnosis that comes to mind. This association is not surprising. Breast cancer has the most extensive research on scalp cooling efficacy, and it was the first to receive FDA clearance in the U.S. However, the data has expanded significantly. Patients with other diagnoses may also be candidates for this beneficial treatment.

Why Breast Cancer Gets Most of the Attention

Breast cancer patients were the earliest and most studied population for scalp cooling. This focus is partly due to the use of taxane and anthracycline-based regimens, which cause significant hair loss. These regimens are cornerstones of breast cancer treatment. The data for this population is robust, and clinical protocols are well established. However, the underlying mechanism of scalp cooling—reducing blood flow to hair follicles during infusion to minimize chemotherapy exposure—applies broadly to various cancers.

Other Solid Tumor Cancers

Scalp cooling data has continued to expand. It now supports its use across additional cancer types. Mechanical scalp cooling has received FDA clearance for patients over the age of 21 with solid tumors. Here are some examples:

• Lung Cancer: Specifically non-small cell lung cancer treated with taxane-based regimens.

• Ovarian and Gynecologic Cancers: Patients receiving platinum/taxane combinations may benefit.

• Colorectal Cancer: Certain regimens have shown positive results.

• Bladder and Kidney Cancers: In select cases, scalp cooling may be appropriate.

  
  

Eligibility for scalp cooling depends on specific chemotherapy drugs and doses, not solely on the diagnosis. Nurses and oncologists should assess each regimen individually, considering the whole patient.

Who Is Not a Candidate?

The use of Amma is contraindicated in adult patients with:

• Cancers of the head and neck

• CNS malignancies (either primary or metastatic)

• Cold sensitivity or cold urticaria

• Cryofibrinogenemia

• Cryoglobulinemia

• Existing history of scalp metastases or suspected presence of scalp metastasis

• Hematological malignancies and non-solid tumors (leukemia, non-Hodgkin, and other generalized lymphomas) or hematological malignancies that are being treated for cure

• History of cold agglutinin disease

• Imminent bone marrow ablation chemotherapy

• Imminent or previously received skull irradiation

• Post-traumatic cold dystrophy

• Scalp and/or cutaneous metastases have been reported in patients with non-small cell lung cancer, colon cancer, renal cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, and bladder cancer. Patients with advanced forms of these cancers may be more likely to experience scalp metastases with the scalp cooling system.

• Patients with severe liver or renal disease from any etiology who may not be able to metabolize or clear the metabolites of the chemotherapeutic agent

• Skin cancers (melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma)

• Small cell carcinoma of the lung

  
  

The Importance of Consultation

It is crucial for patients to consult their oncologist before making any decisions about their treatment. Oncologists can provide personalized advice based on individual health conditions and treatment plans. They can also explain the potential benefits and risks associated with scalp cooling.

Support During Treatment

Questions during treatment? Reach out to our Customer Care team, we're here to support you every step of the way.

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 Cooler Heads provides scalp cooling services and education to cancer patients across the United States. This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult your oncologist before making any decisions about your treatment.