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Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for permanent alopecia of unwanted palatal hair
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for permanent alopecia of unwanted palatal hair

Carryn Anderson, Ann Morris, John M. Buatti, Deborah Alt and Rodrigo Bayon
Journal of radiation oncology, Vol.1(4), pp.411-414
12/01/2012
DOI: 10.1007/s13566-012-0051-x
url
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13566-012-0051-xView
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Options for unwanted intraoral hair removal associated with flap reconstruction may include trimming, electrolysis, mechanical epilation, and laser and light epilation. These methods provide temporary relief and often require repeated treatment, with laser and light epilation providing the most durable response. Therapeutic external beam radiation used in the treatment of cancer is known to cause temporary alopecia at low doses and permanent alopecia at higher doses. We report a case of a man who underwent oncologic resection for early stage retromolar trigone cancer. His surgical defect required reconstruction with a submental flap. Post-operatively, his flap grew a thick beard within his oral cavity that was extremely bothersome. Due to the location of the flap, trimming, electrolysis, laser, and light epilation were not recommended treatment options. He was referred to us for consideration of external beam radiation with the goal of permanent alopecia of his intraoral graft.
Oncology Life Sciences & Biomedicine Science & Technology

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