What should you know about immunotherapy side effects hair loss?

Immunotherapy can alter immune activity and may affect the skin or hair follicles. Hair may thin gradually, shed in patches or change in texture. It may also become dry or brittle. Hair loss can have another cause, including chemotherapy given with immunotherapy, hormonal changes, thyroid inflammation, illness or nutritional problems, so the timing and treatment combination matter.

A scalp rash, itching, scaling or tenderness can point to skin inflammation rather than hair shedding alone. Describing these details helps the team decide whether examination or blood tests are useful.

Tell your oncology team when shedding begins and whether it is accompanied by a rash or scalp pain. Use a mild shampoo, lukewarm water and gentle handling; avoid tight hairstyles, harsh chemicals and frequent heat styling while the scalp is sensitive. Protect exposed scalp from strong sun and cold with a soft covering that does not rub.

Ask about a dermatologist or oncology nurse if the change is distressing. Do not stop immunotherapy or begin vitamins marketed for hair growth without clinical advice. A photograph or short symptom diary can show how the change develops.

Contact the treatment team promptly for rapidly worsening shedding, painful or blistered skin, pus, fever, facial swelling, a widespread rash, or hair loss with marked tiredness, constipation, palpitations or feeling unusually cold. Seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, swelling of the lips or tongue, or fainting.

Could another treatment or thyroid problem be contributing? Do I need a scalp examination or blood tests? Which products are suitable for my scalp? Should I expect the change to continue if treatment continues? Who can help with a wig, scarf or other practical support?