Long-Term Hair Loss Associated With Brentuximab Vedotin–Containing Chemotherapy And Its Psychosocial Impact: A Retrospective Observational Study Conducted At The Royal Marsden Hospital
May 2026
in “
Journal of Clinical Oncology
”
TLDR Brentuximab vedotin chemotherapy can cause long-term hair loss and emotional distress.
This retrospective observational study at the Royal Marsden Hospital examined the long-term effects of brentuximab vedotin (BV)-associated alopecia in 13 patients with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. All patients experienced generalized alopecia, with 38.5% reporting persistent abnormal hair regrowth more than two years post-treatment. The study highlighted significant psychosocial impacts, including reduced self-confidence, emotional distress, and difficulty accepting changes in appearance. Despite BV's therapeutic benefits, the study underscores the need for further research into the mechanisms of BV-associated alopecia to improve prevention and support for affected patients.