Advanced Sensor-Based Cap Cooling System for Mitigating Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss

Abstract

Chemotherapy, a pivotal cancer treatment, frequently instigates alopecia, a psychologically distressing side effect that may deter patients from undergoing treatment. This paper presents a novel, sensor-equipped cooling cap designed to mitigate this hair loss by lowering scalp temperature, thereby reducing blood flow to the scalp before, during, and after chemotherapy. The innovation lies in substituting the conventional mechanical compressor-condenser system with electronic Peltier elements and a radiator, marking a significant evolution in cooling cap technology. The system, composed of a cap and a cooling section, was trialed on six breast cancer patients undergoing treatment with different chemotherapy drugs such as Taxol, Taxotere, and Anthracyclines. Initial observations reported hair retention in up to 89% and 59% of cases treated with Taxotere/Taxol and Anthracyclines respectively, suggesting variable efficacy based on the chemotherapy drug used. The lightweight, flexible system features a smart touchscreen control and an economical design using readily available components, offering userfriendly efficiency and comfort.