Definition: Alopecia is hair loss that can occur for a variety of reasons. In relation to cancer, chemotherapy treatment can cause someone to experience temporary hair loss. Radiation therapy can also cause hair loss, but only in the local area of treatment. Radiation therapy is given to certain parts of the body based on where the cancer is located. For example, if someone receives radiation therapy to their head, it may cause hair loss on the head.
Pronunciation: al-uh-pee-shee-uh
Also Known As: cancer-related alopecia, chemotherapy-induced hair loss
