Approaches to management of endocrine therapy-induced alopecia in breast cancer patients.

Abstract

Alopecia associated with use of endocrine therapy is an underreported adverse effect despite its significant impact on a patient's quality of life. There is a lack of published evidence for the treatment and management of endocrine therapy-induced alopecia (EIA). Current therapeutic strategies for EIA in breast cancer patients primarily include pharmacologic agents for androgenic alopecia given the similar underlying pathophysiology and clinical presentation of hair loss of EIA and other causes of alopecia. This review aims to summarize select prescription and non-prescription agents (i.e., over-the-counter products, nutraceuticals, dietary supplements) that may be used for EIA including general efficacy and safety. Further studies are needed in the breast cancer population to better understand the place in therapy and efficacy of these pharmacologic agents for EIA.