Why cancer treatment may cause burns and hair loss?

Cancer treatments can cause burns and hair loss due to the mechanisms of action of the therapies used. Here's an explanation of how and why these side effects occur:

1. Burns (Radiation Dermatitis):

- Radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells.

- When radiation is delivered to an area of the body, it can also affect the surrounding healthy tissues, causing skin damage.

- Radiation dermatitis is the term used to describe the skin reactions that occur as a result of radiation therapy.

- The skin may become red, dry, itchy, irritated, and sensitive. In more severe cases, blistering, peeling, and ulceration can occur, resembling burns.

- The skin's response to radiation varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the total radiation dose, the area being treated, and the individual's skin sensitivity.

2. Hair Loss (Alopecia):

- Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells throughout the body.

- Many chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, including those in hair follicles.

- When these hair cells are affected, hair loss can occur.

- The degree of hair loss varies depending on the chemotherapy drug or combination of drugs used. Some drugs may cause complete hair loss, while others may cause thinning or hair loss in specific areas.

- Hair loss typically begins 1-3 weeks after starting chemotherapy and can continue for several weeks after treatment ends.

- Once chemotherapy is complete, hair usually starts to regrow, but it may take several months to return to its normal thickness and texture.

It is important to note that not all cancer treatments cause burns or hair loss. Some treatments, such as surgery or targeted therapies, may have different side effects. Patients should discuss the potential side effects of their cancer treatment with their healthcare team before starting therapy to understand what to expect and to receive appropriate management strategies.