You are here:

Breast Cancer/Chemo and Cold Caps

Advertisement

Expert: - 6/5/2008


Question
Our oncologist says Cold Caps are "very risky" because you might end up with scalp cancer. Outside the US they are common and we could find no studies that showed it was a problem.

However, during chemo they gave her crushed ice to keep in her mouth to help prevent mouth sores. Is this not the same
concept? Why would she not be at risk for oral cancer?

We think it's all politics, Cold Caps would cause to many problems for the nurses. What do you think? Do they really help you keep your hair? Are they that risky?

Thanks!  David  

Answer
The risk by using cold caps is more a theoretical risk than one based on experience. But some ARE worried by that theoretical risk. However cold caps are not always effective either in preserving hair. Ice in your mouth does have some similarities with cold caps in the way it works. Though probably less effective to some extent. Well it would be a somewhat complicating factor, but I think that those who are against it are so due to the theoretical risk they perceive. I myself are neither for nor against its use. It is up to the patient after all sides of the matter have been discussed.

Breast Cancer

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

Expertise

I`m a doctor of medicine and a specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have long experience in diagnostics and treatment of breast tumours.

Experience

I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy educated & trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps.You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 I have no restrictions on the number of questions there.

I also answer questions about Oncology (General Cancer), General History, Military History, Brain Tumors, Colon Cancer

Education/Credentials
I'm a medical doctor and specialist in medical oncology and radiation therapy.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.