Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for permanent alopecia of unwanted palatal hair

Abstract

Options for unwanted intraoral hair removal associated with flap reconstruction may include trimming, electrolysis, mechanical epilation, and laser and light epilation. These methods provide temporary relief and often require repeated treatment, with laser and light epilation providing the most durable response. Therapeutic external beam radiation used in the treatment of cancer is known to cause temporary alopecia at low doses and permanent alopecia at higher doses. We report a case of a man who underwent oncologic resection for early stage retromolar trigone cancer. His surgical defect required reconstruction with a submental flap. Post-operatively, his flap grew a thick beard within his oral cavity that was extremely bothersome. Due to the location of the flap, trimming, electrolysis, laser, and light epilation were not recommended treatment options. He was referred to us for consideration of external beam radiation with the goal of permanent alopecia of his intraoral graft. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.