Abraxane/Carboplatin Chemo Regime

Hi Liz

Sorry to hear you are going through it.  I was treated for Stage 3 ovarian and  peritoneum cancer last year, part of my treatment was chemo every 3 weeks for 8 cycles , as I had long hair I was anxious to keep it and so had cold cap. It wasn’t successful and I lost probably 75% of my hair.  It was soul destroying when it started coming out in handfuls. As the hair gets thinner on your scalp the cold cap can be really uncomfortable and even burn your scalp.  I ended up cutting the hair I had left short as it wasn’t so upsetting.  The chemo I was on was successful for the ovarian cancer but five months after being in remission I developed cancer in my abdomen - fortunately the chemo I am now on doesn’t cause hair loss, but like you as long as it’s working that’s really all that matters

Stay strong and positive 

Beat wishes 

Carole x 

Hi Carole,

I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through it all again, but good news that your new chemo regime doesn’t result in hair loss. I’ve got everything crossed that this new regime works for you.

I was wondering about the cold cap becoming more uncomfortable as your hair thins. I’ve just washed my hair and was shocked at how much came out, compared to just brushing it. I didn’t even massage the shampoo in. Never mind, if it comes out, then it’s already dead and there’s no point in fretting about it. I’m just wondering whether it’s worth persevering with the cold cap though. I’ll have a chat with my chemo nurse on Thursday when I have my bloods taken to see what she thinks.

Thank you for taking the time to reply.

Liz x

HI Liz. I also did the cold cap and from what I understand from my chemo nurses is The Paclitaxol causes complete hair loss not Carboplatin. Your hair may still thin but you shouldn't loose it all. My head did itch for the first two cycles but was ok after that. I must admit I only washed my hair once a week and it was more of a stroke than a scrub!

Hi Liz

Thank you.  It’s always helpful being able to exchange experiences in this unique community we share.  With hindsight I wouldn’t have cold cap again, I ended up wearing turban style headwear anyway, I did invest in a wig which everyone said suited me, but I found it hot so rarely wore it.  I am now enjoying 9 months of new hair growth.  It’s come back the same colour but whereas before it was dead straight, it now has a wave at the back.  This apparently is known as chemo curl.

Hi newmay21,

The Abraxane part of my joyous cocktail is part of the paclitaxel family. The paclitaxel part of Abraxane is coated in fat and proteins, which makes it easier to take and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. I was hoping it might be less harsh on the hair loss front…..but apparently not.

You did make me laugh about stroking your hair. Think I might reduce the hair washing to once a week too since it’s no longer getting coated in hairspray etc. Worryingly I think hubby is secretly happy about my new hair regime as it means I’m ready in about 20 mins as there’s no faffing with the hair! Every cloud…..

Liz x

Hi Carole,

I have naturally wavy hair so I’d love for it to come back poker straight. Knowing my luck it will grow back grey and curly and I’ll look like a poodle lol. I’ve already bought a wig and a couple of hats ready.

I’m having 3 cycles of chemo and then I’ll be scanned to see if it’s working. If it’s working (and my sole kidney is still ok), then I’ll have the full 6 cycles. If it’s not working, then I’ll be referred back to the complex gynae team at the QE in Birmingham to see whether surgery is still an option. The surgical option sounds grim so I’m not giving that any headspace until it’s time for my scan mid November.

When is your next chemo session? I do hope the side effects are minimal for you.

Liz x