A simple solution to create a custom scalp-sparing helmet to prevent alopecia in patients undergoing total skin electron beam therapy for cutaneous T cell lymphoma

Abstract

Total skin electron beam therapy (TSEBT) is effective for patients with refractory or diffuse skin involvement of cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCL). A common concern for patients undergoing TSEBT is the development of alopecia. Patients are already burdened with the physical symptoms associated with their disease; therefore, mitigating additional physical side effects of treatment, including cosmetic concerns, is important. As such, the purpose of this study is to evaluate a novel technique to prevent alopecia after TSEBT. Prior scalp sparing techniques have relied largely on materials found in the radiation department (e.g., lead, Superflab bolus), but in this report, we utilized a custom blue wax polyethylene material to create a custom scalp-sparing, dose attenuating, helmet. The priorities that lead to investigating this solution included patient comfort, full scalp protection, and practicality. We wanted to find a light weight, snug fitting, helmet to protect the entire hair line, that could be easily fabricated for any patient. In the end, we found success in our efforts to minimize radiation to the scalp for indistinguishable hair volume changes.

Keywords

• Scalp sparing
• Alopecia
• Mycosis Fungoides
• Total skin electron beam therapy
• Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma
• Radiation