Oncology
same chemotherapy regimen. Despite these uncertainties, the study encourages patients to continue scalp cooling, even if initial results are not satisfactory, particularly during anthracycline (AC) treatment. While this study did not gather data on hair
regrowth, it has been documented and exhibited in a number of other studies that scalp cooling can lead to quicker regrowth and even help to prevent persistent-chemotherapy induced alopecia – a lesser-known long-term side effect of certain regimens. The Registry also suggests that, over time,
increased knowledge and better application of scalp cooling protocols have led to better outcomes. Before the most recent cohort, average efficacy from the study was 50%. This increase to 56% in the latest publication emphasises that accurate deployment of the elements of the treatment such as cap fit, and pre- and post-infusion cooling times, are even more important in ensuring the best outcomes possible for patients.
The scalp cooling outcomes calculator While the paper itself offers an exhaustive analysis of specific chemotherapy drugs, the in-depth data allowed the researchers to train an algorithm to predict scalp cooling outcomes. It has also led to the creation of a scalp cooling outcomes calculator by the mechanised scalp cooling device manufacturer, Paxman. Here, patients themselves can access the
calculator when researching scalp cooling. Selecting their chemotherapy drug and dosage allows them to gain an estimate on the likelihood of retaining half of their hair. This tool, grounded in the experiences of 7,424 patients, allows one to make a more informed decision around their choice to scalp cool and sets more realistic expectations.
Next step, an International Registry
What’s next for the team behind the Dutch Registry? After collecting scalp cooling data on over 7,000 patients in the Netherlands, their next goal is to collate a similar registry on an international scale. An international scalp cooling registry would help to more accurately determine discrepancies in scalp cooling between countries and how country-specific factors influence outcomes, such as: availability, accessibility and affordability. The current iteration of the Registry acknowledges that there is a lack of substantial data on variety of hair types and ethnic representation within the study, something which could be better
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tackled on an international stage. A registry of this scale would increase the diversity of the cohort, addressing disparities and enhancing our understanding of scalp cooling across different healthcare settings. Different countries have slightly different approaches to drugs, depending on regulatory approvals, cost, physician preferences etc. An international registry will allow the team to collect more data, particularly for regimens that are not used within the Netherlands.
It would also aim to help increase scalp cooling efficacy, improve clinical reviews, educate providers and further the understanding and recognition of the impact of hair loss for the patient.
A significant milestone in scalp cooling research The Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry solidifies scalp cooling as the gold standard for preventing chemotherapy-induced hair loss. Its comprehensive dataset and robust analysis provide clinicians and patients with the strongest evidence yet of its efficacy. For patients and clinicians alike, it presents a number of crucial recommendations: l Universal access: Scalp cooling should be routinely offered to all eligible patients, regardless of gender or expected efficacy.
l Setting realistic expectations: Tools like the Outcomes Calculator help guide patient decisions and ensure satisfaction.
l Standardised protocols: Consistent application of best practices, such as proper cap fit and cooling times, is critical.
Speaking about the significance of the registry data, Nik Georgopoulos PhD, BSc, FHEA, co-author and associate professor at Sheffield Hallam University, says: “The publication of the Registry data represents a milestone in clinical scalp cooling research. By analysing the findings from such a large patient cohort, the great statistical power of the study provides the strongest ever evidence for the efficacy of scalp cooling in protecting cancer patients from chemotherapy-induced hair loss.” As the field of oncology continues to
advance, the Registry serves as a reminder that patient-centred care goes beyond survival. By preserving hair and therefore privacy, identity and wellbeing, scalp cooling enhances the quality of life for thousands of patients worldwide.
References 1. Dunnill et al. Cooling-mediated protection from chemotherapy drug-induced cytotoxicity
in human keratinocytes by inhibition of cellular drug uptake. PLoS One. 2020 Oct 15;15(10):e0240454.
Further reading l Toni S Brook, Tanja Seetsen, Marcus W Dercksen, Annemarie van Riel, Veerle A Derleyn, Johan van den Bosch, Johannes W R Nortier, Andrew Collett, Nikolas T Georgopoulos, Jarek Bryk, Wim P M Breed, Corina J G Van Den Hurk. Results of the Dutch scalp cooling registry in 7424 patients: analysis of determinants for scalp cooling efficacy. The Oncologist. 2024;
https://doi.org/10.1093/ oncolo/oyae116
l Corina.J. van den Hurk, Mijke Peerbooms, Lonneke V. van de Poll-Franse, Johan W. Nortier, Jan Willem W. Coebergh & Wim P. Breed. Scalp cooling for hair preservation and associated characteristics in 1411 chemotherapy patients - Results of the Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry. The Oncologist, 2012; 00: 1–8
About the authors
Toni Brook Toni Brook studied for her undergraduate degree at The University of Huddersfield and was awarded a first class in biochemistry in June 2021.
Most recently, she sucessfully completed her PhD at The University of Huddersfield, examining the critical parameters influencing the efficacy of scalp cooling to prevent chemotherapy- induced alopecia. Toni is also one of the co-authors of the Dutch Scalp Cooling Registry and presented its abstract at the MASCC/AFSOS/ISOO 2024 Annual Meeting in June 2024.
Daniel Milner Based in Leeds, UK, Daniel Milner is the Content Marketing Lead at Paxman Scalp Cooling. He develops and delivers tailored content strategies to
engage the business’s audiences. His content, normally via the Paxman channels, aims to drive education and adoption of scalp cooling among patients and healthcare professionals. With a background in copywriting and
CSJ
content marketing, Daniel has previously worked with various UK marketing agencies to author websites, thought leadership articles, magazines, video scripts, and more.
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