Radiation-Induced Alopecia: A Systematic Review of Incidence, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Management

This paper is a systematic review on radiation-induced alopecia, a common hair-loss complication after radiotherapy involving the scalp, brain, head and neck, or craniospinal region. It reviews evidence on the incidence, severity, risk factors, prevention, and management of this condition. The paper highlights that higher radiation dose, larger scalp exposure, fractionation schedule, re-irradiation, and concurrent chemotherapy are major contributors to temporary or permanent alopecia. It also discusses preventive approaches such as IMRT, VMAT, proton therapy, and scalp-sparing radiotherapy techniques. Management options include topical minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma therapy, low-level laser therapy, cosmetic support, and hair transplantation, though evidence remains limited. Overall, the review emphasizes the need for standardized reporting, stronger prospective studies, and better strategies to reduce hair loss and improve patients’ quality of life.