Alopecia Neoplastica

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 15 min read
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Alopecia Neoplastica
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Alopecia neoplastica is a type of hair loss that is caused by the growth of cancer cells in the hair follicles. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss or baldness, while "neoplastica" refers to the presence of cancer cells. This condition is also known as...

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বাংলা রোগী নোট এখনো যোগ করা হয়নি। পোস্ট এডিটরে “RX Bangla Patient Mode” বক্স থেকে সহজ বাংলা সারাংশ যোগ করুন।

এই তথ্য শিক্ষা ও সচেতনতার জন্য। এটি ডাক্তারি পরীক্ষা, রোগ নির্ণয় বা প্রেসক্রিপশনের বিকল্প নয়।

Article Summary

Alopecia neoplastica is a type of hair loss that is caused by the growth of cancer cells in the hair follicles. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss or baldness, while "neoplastica" refers to the presence of cancer cells. This condition is also known as "cicatricial alopecia" or "scarring alopecia". Alopecia neoplastica can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in...

Key Takeaways

  • This article explains Causes in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Symptoms in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Diagnosis in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Treatment in simple medical language.
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Definition

Alopecia neoplastica is a type of hair loss that is caused by the growth of cancer cells in the hair follicles. The term “alopecia” refers to hair loss or baldness, while “neoplastica” refers to the presence of cancer cells. This condition is also known as “cicatricial alopecia” or “scarring alopecia”.

Alopecia neoplastica can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly individuals. It can affect both men and women, and it can occur in any part of the scalp or body where hair grows.

There are several different types of alopecia neoplastica, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and it is usually found on the face, neck, or trunk. Squamous cell carcinoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer and it can spread to other parts of the body. Malignant melanoma is a rare form of skin cancer that is often associated with dark or black spots on the skin.

Causes

There are several causes of alopecia neoplastica, and it is important to understand these causes in order to better understand the condition and its effects.

The first cause of alopecia neoplastica is chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs can also affect healthy cells, including hair follicles. This can cause hair loss, as the drugs interfere with the hair growth cycle and prevent hair from growing. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and hair will typically grow back after treatment is complete. However, in some cases, hair may not grow back, or it may take several months or even years for the hair to grow back.

The second cause of alopecia neoplastica is radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can also affect hair follicles, causing hair to fall out. This type of hair loss is usually temporary, and hair will typically grow back once treatment is complete. However, in some cases, hair may not grow back, or it may take several months or even years for the hair to grow back.

The third cause of alopecia neoplastica is hormonal imbalances. Cancer treatments can affect hormones, which can lead to hair loss. For example, some cancer treatments can cause the body to produce too much testosterone, which can lead to hair loss. Hormonal imbalances can also occur as a result of hormonal therapy, which is a type of cancer treatment that involves using hormones to target cancer cells.

The fourth cause of alopecia neoplastica is stress. Stress can have a negative impact on the body and can lead to hair loss. This can occur as a result of the stress associated with cancer treatment, such as fear, anxiety, or depression. Stress can also affect hormones, which can lead to hair loss.

The fifth cause of alopecia neoplastica is autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells, including hair follicles. This can cause hair loss, as the immune system destroys the hair follicles. Some common autoimmune diseases that can cause hair loss include alopecia areata, lupus, and psoriasis.

The sixth cause of alopecia neoplastica is nutritional deficiencies. Cancer treatment can affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. This can cause hair loss, as the hair follicles need certain nutrients, such as iron, to grow.

The seventh cause of alopecia neoplastica is genetics. Hair loss can be inherited, and some people are more likely to experience hair loss as a result of cancer treatment than others. Family history can play a role in determining the likelihood of hair loss, as well as the severity and duration of the hair loss.

The following is a list of the main causes of alopecia neoplastica:

  • Cancer: Cancer is one of the most common causes of alopecia neoplastica. Cancer cells can spread from other parts of the body to the hair follicles, causing them to become malignant and resulting in hair loss.
  • Genetic predisposition: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to alopecia neoplastica, meaning that they are more likely to develop the condition due to their genetic makeup.
  • Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors, such as exposure to toxic substances or radiation, can increase the risk of developing alopecia neoplastica.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can also increase the risk of alopecia neoplastica.
  • Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or alopecia areata, can also lead to alopecia neoplastica. In these cases, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing them to become malignant.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can cause alopecia neoplastica as a side effect.
  • Trauma: Trauma to the scalp, such as a head injury, can also lead to alopecia neoplastica.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of this condition are hair loss, bald patches, and rapid hair loss.

  • Hair Loss: The most obvious symptom of alopecia neoplastica is hair loss. In this condition, hair loss can occur in patches or in a widespread manner. The hair loss can be sudden and rapid, and the affected area may be small or large.
  • Bald Patches: Bald patches can be seen in areas where hair loss has occurred. These patches may be round or oval in shape and can be located anywhere on the scalp, face, or body. The skin in these areas may appear smooth and shiny, and the hair follicles may be absent.
  • Rapid Hair Loss: Rapid hair loss is another symptom of alopecia neoplastica. This means that the hair loss occurs quickly and may be noticeable within a few days or weeks. The hair loss may be sudden and severe, and it can be difficult to stop or slow down.
  • Follicular Atrophy: Follicular atrophy is a condition where the hair follicles shrink and become smaller. This can lead to decreased hair growth and hair loss. In alopecia neoplastica, follicular atrophy can occur due to the presence of a tumor or cancer, which can cause damage to the hair follicles.
  • Scalp Pain: In some cases, alopecia neoplastica can cause pain or discomfort in the scalp. The pain may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by itching, burning, or tenderness.
  • Itching: Itching is another symptom of alopecia neoplastica. The itching may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by redness, swelling, or flaking of the skin.
  • Redness: Redness of the skin can occur in areas where hair loss has occurred. The redness may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by itching, swelling, or flaking of the skin.
  • Swelling: Swelling can occur in areas where hair loss has occurred. The swelling may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by redness, itching, or flaking of the skin.
  • Flaking: Flaking of the skin can occur in areas where hair loss has occurred. The flaking may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by redness, itching, or swelling of the skin.
  • Numbness: In some cases, alopecia neoplastica can cause numbness or tingling in the affected area. The numbness may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by pain, burning, or itching.
  • Burning: Burning can occur in areas where hair loss has occurred. The burning may be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by numbness, itching, or tingling.

These are the main symptoms of alopecia neoplastica. It is important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. If you are experiencing hair loss, bald patches, or any of the other symptoms listed above, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

  1. Hair Loss in Patches: The most obvious symptom of Alopecia neoplastica is hair loss in patches on the scalp. The patches of hair loss can be circular or oval in shape and can vary in size. The hair loss is usually sudden and the patches may grow in size over time.
  2. Bald Spots: Bald spots can also occur in people with Alopecia neoplastica. These bald spots can be located anywhere on the scalp and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or redness.
  3. Itching and Redness: Some people with Alopecia neoplastica may experience itching or redness in the affected area. The itching can be severe and may be accompanied by a burning sensation. The redness is usually due to infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation in the hair follicles.
  4. Pain: In some cases, people with Alopecia neoplastica may experience pain in the affected area. The pain may be mild or severe and may be accompanied by a burning sensation.
  5. Swelling: Swelling in the affected area is another symptom of Alopecia neoplastica. The swelling may be accompanied by redness and itching.
  6. Scarring: In some cases, Alopecia neoplastica can lead to scarring in the affected area. The scarring can be due to the growth of the tumor in the hair follicles.
  7. Numbness: Numbness in the affected area is another symptom of Alopecia neoplastica. The numbness may be accompanied by tingling or a burning sensation.
  8. Changes in Texture: The hair in the affected area may also change in texture. The hair may become brittle or thin, or it may become curly or wavy.
  9. Changes in Color: The hair in the affected area may also change in color. The hair may become lighter or darker, or it may become gray.
  10. Changes in Thickness: The hair in the affected area may also change in thickness. The hair may become thin or sparse, or it may become thick and curly.

In some cases, Alopecia neoplastica may be accompanied by other

Diagnosis

The condition is often mistaken for other forms of hair loss, such as alopecia areata or androgenetic alopecia. Therefore, it is important to undergo the appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the hair loss.

  1. Physical Examination

A physical examination is the first step in diagnosing Alopecia neoplastica. The doctor will examine the affected area of the scalp and look for any signs of hair loss, including patches of hair loss, redness, or scaliness. They may also look for signs of infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation or infection, as well as any changes in the texture or thickness of the hair.

  1. Trichoscopy

Trichoscopy is a diagnostic test that uses a special type of microscope to examine the hair and scalp. The doctor will use the microscope to look for any signs of hair loss, including patches of hair loss, changes in the texture or thickness of the hair, or any other abnormalities. This test is helpful in diagnosing Alopecia neoplastica because it allows the doctor to see the hair and scalp in greater detail, and to determine if there are any underlying causes of the hair loss.

  1. Scalp Biopsy

A scalp biopsy is a diagnostic test that involves removing a small sample of skin from the affected area of the scalp. The sample will then be examined under a microscope to determine if there are any cancer cells present. This test is often used in combination with other diagnostic tests, such as trichoscopy or a blood test, to confirm the diagnosis of Alopecia neoplastica.

  1. Blood Test

A blood test is a diagnostic test that measures the levels of certain hormones or antibodies in the blood. These hormones or antibodies can indicate the presence of autoimmune disorders, such as Alopecia neoplastica. The doctor may also order a blood test to check for other underlying causes of hair loss, such as anemia or thyroid problems.

  1. CT Scan

A CT scan is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the body. This test is often used to determine if there are any cancer cells in other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or organs. A CT scan may also be used to determine the extent of the cancer and to help plan treatment.

  1. MRI

An MRI is a type of imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. This test is often used to determine if there are any cancer cells in other parts of the body, such as the brain or spinal cord. An MRI may also be used to determine the extent of the cancer and to help plan treatment.

  1. PET Scan

A PET scan is a type of imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to create detailed images of the body. This test is often used to determine if there are any cancer cells in other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or organs. A PET scan may also be used to determine the extent of the cancer and to help plan treatment.

  1. X-Ray

An X-ray is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays to create images of the body. This test is often used to determine if there are any cancer cells in other parts of the body

Treatment

There are several treatments available for alopecia neoplastica, which can be used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

  1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is one of the most common treatments for alopecia neoplastica. This type of treatment involves the use of drugs to destroy the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy can cause hair loss in some individuals, but it is usually temporary. The hair usually grows back after the treatment is finished.
  2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is another common treatment for alopecia neoplastica. This type of treatment uses high-energy radiation to destroy the cancerous cells. Radiation therapy can cause hair loss in some individuals, but it is usually temporary. The hair usually grows back after the treatment is finished.
  3. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is a treatment option for alopecia neoplastica that works by blocking the effects of hormones that help the cancerous cells grow. Hormone therapy is typically used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that specifically targets the cancerous cells, without affecting healthy cells. This type of treatment is often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  5. Surgery: Surgery is a treatment option for alopecia neoplastica in some cases. The affected hair follicles are removed, which can help to stop the spread of the cancerous cells. Surgery is typically used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  6. Wig or hairpiece: Wearing a wig or hairpiece can help to manage the appearance of hair loss caused by alopecia neoplastica. Wigs and hairpieces are made from synthetic or human hair and can be styled to look natural.
  7. Scalp cooling: Scalp cooling is a treatment option for alopecia neoplastica that involves wearing a cap that is cooled to a specific temperature. This helps to reduce the amount of hair loss during chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  8. Topical treatments: Topical treatments, such as minoxidil or finasteride, can help to slow down the progression of alopecia neoplastica in some individuals. These treatments work by stimulating the growth of new hair follicles and improving blood flow to the scalp.
  9. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy is a treatment option for alopecia neoplastica that involves injecting the patient’s own blood plasma into the scalp. This helps to stimulate the growth of new hair follicles and improve blood flow to the scalp.
  10. Hair transplant: Hair transplant is a surgical treatment option for alopecia neoplastica that involves removing hair follicles from one part of the body and transplanting them to the affected area. Hair transplant can help to restore hair growth in the affected area.

Surgical Treatments

  1. Surgical Excision: Surgical excision is the most common type of surgical treatment for alopecia neoplastica. This procedure involves the removal of the cancerous tissue from the scalp and may involve the removal of a portion of the scalp. The scalp can then be closed with stitches or a skin graft.
  2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery: This is a type of surgical treatment that is used to remove small tumors from the scalp. This procedure involves the removal of a small piece of skin and the examination of the tissue under a microscope. The procedure is repeated until all of the cancerous cells have been removed.
  3. Scalp Reconstruction: Scalp reconstruction is a type of surgical treatment that is used to rebuild the scalp after the removal of cancerous tissue. This procedure involves the use of skin grafts or flaps to cover the area where the cancerous tissue was removed.

In conclusion, there are several treatments available for alopecia neoplastica, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, surgery, wigs or hairpieces, scalp cooling, topical treatments, PRP therapy, and hair transplant. The best treatment option for an individual will depend on the severity of their condition, their medical history, and their personal preferences. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine

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A simple rural-patient checklist to help you explain symptoms clearly, ask better questions, and avoid unsafe self-treatment.

Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

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Start with a registered doctor or the nearest qualified health center.

What to tell the doctor

  • Write when the problem started and how it changed.
  • Bring old prescriptions, investigation reports, and current medicines.
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Questions to ask

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which danger signs mean I should go to hospital quickly?
  • Which tests are necessary now, and which can wait?
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Tests to discuss

  • Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation
  • Basic physical examination by a clinician
  • CBC, urine test, blood sugar, or imaging only when clinically needed

Avoid these mistakes

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  • Do not delay emergency care when danger signs are present.

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Safe first steps

  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden bending, and prolonged bed rest.
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  • Discuss physiotherapy, X-ray, or MRI only when clinically needed.

OTC medicine safety

  • For mild back pain, pain-relief medicine may be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
  • Avoid repeated painkiller use if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
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Get urgent help if

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Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

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Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Doctor / qualified healthcare provider
Tests to discuss with doctor
  • Basic vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen level if needed
  • Relevant blood, urine, imaging, or specialist tests only after clinical assessment
Questions to ask
  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
  • Which tests are really needed now?
  • Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Safe pathway to proper treatment

Care roadmap for: Alopecia Neoplastica

Use this simple roadmap to understand the next safe steps. It is educational and does not replace examination by a doctor.

Go to emergency care if you notice:
  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
  • Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, major injury, or severe dehydration
Doctor / service to discuss: Qualified healthcare provider; specialist depends on symptoms and examination.
  1. Step 1

    Check danger signs first

    If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.

  2. Step 2

    Record the symptom story

    Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.

  3. Step 3

    Visit a qualified clinician

    A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.

  4. Step 4

    Do only useful tests

    Do tests after clinical assessment. Avoid unnecessary tests, random antibiotics, or repeated medicines without diagnosis.

  5. Step 5

    Follow up and return early if worse

    If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips
  • Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
  • Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
  • Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

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Write your symptom story. A health professional or site editor can review it before any answer is prepared. This box is not for emergency care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. Combined Immunodeficiency with Expansion of Gamma Delta T Cells

    DefinitionCombined immunodeficiency with expansion of gamma delta T cells (often shortened to CID with γδ T-cell expansion) is a rare group of primary (inborn) immune system...

    February 15, 2026 • Rx Autoimmune, Genetic and Rare Diseases (A - Z)
  2. Cutis Verticis Gyrata

    DefinitionCutis verticis gyrata is a rare skin condition of the scalp where the skin becomes thick and forms deep folds and grooves that look like the...

    February 4, 2026 • Rx Dermatology, Skin Disease, and Allergy
  3. Clouston’s Hidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia

    DefinitionClouston’s hidrotic ectodermal dysplasia is a rare inherited skin and hair condition. It mainly affects the hair, nails and the thick skin on the palms of...

    January 31, 2026 • Rx Dermatology, Skin Disease, and Allergy
  4. Clouston Syndrome

    DefinitionClouston syndrome is a rare condition that a person is born with. It mainly affects three things in the body: the hair, the nails, and the...

    January 31, 2026 • Rx Pregnancy, Baby & Mom Care
  5. Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis (CMC)

    DefinitionChronic? mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) is a rare immune system disorder where the body cannot properly fight Candida (yeast) infections on the skin, nails, and moist surfaces...

    January 25, 2026 • Rx Autoimmune, Genetic and Rare Diseases (A - Z)
  6. Regional Choroidal Atrophy and Alopecia

    DefinitionRegional choroidal atrophy? and alopecia (also called Moloney syndrome or choroidal atrophy?–alopecia syndrome) is a very rare inherited condition. In this condition, part of the choroid...

    January 15, 2026 • Rx Eye & Vision Care (A - Z)
  7. Moloney Syndrome

    DefinitionMoloney syndrome is a very rare genetic condition. It mainly affects the eyes (the choroid and retina), the hair, and the nails. It belongs to a...

    January 15, 2026 • Rx Autoimmune, Genetic and Rare Diseases (A - Z)
  8. Choroidal Atrophy–Alopecia Syndrome

    DefinitionChoroidal atrophy?–alopecia syndrome is an extremely rare genetic condition in which a person has both damage and thinning of the choroid in the eye and loss...

    January 14, 2026 • Rx Eye & Vision Care (A - Z)
  9. Happle Syndrome

    DefinitionHapple syndrome is another name for Conradi–Hünermann–Happle syndrome, also called X-linked dominant chondrodysplasia punctata type 2 (CDPX2). It is a very rare genetic disease that affects...

    January 13, 2026 • Rx Autoimmune, Genetic and Rare Diseases (A - Z)
  10. Conradi-Hünermann-Happle Syndrome

    DefinitionConradi-Hünermann-Happle syndrome is a very rare genetic disease that mainly affects bones, skin, hair, and eyes. It is a type of bone growth problem called “chondrodysplasia...

    January 13, 2026 • Rx Autoimmune, Genetic and Rare Diseases (A - Z)