I have Hodgkins Lypmphoma. Worried about hair loss with ABVD chemotherapy. Any experiences?

Hi All.

I have not started my chemotherapy yet for my Hodgkin's lymphoma. However I am worried about my hair loss, I know its temporary, but I am getting married this year in June and would like to preserve my hair at least till then. Has anyone had ABVD chemotherapy? If so, when did you experience hair loss? How long did it take to grow back?

Please advise thank you!

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Hair loss is one of the consequences of chemotherapy, and usually happens about 2 weeks after chemotherapy.  Your chemotherapy regimen (Doxorubicin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine, Dacarbazine or ABVD) given every 2 weeks will cause hair loss.  My patients who underwent chemotherapy using the same regimen took several months after chemotherapy before their hair grew back.  If you are highly considering treatment, you might want to consider wearing a nice wig now so that you will get used to it in time for your wedding.  

[jim7799]

I thought I'd post a note on my experience. I went through the ABVD treatment for 4 months and did not loose all of my hair. Though it thinned out a lot. Because of my business, I decided to take a chance and not cut my hair down before chemo, as recommended by my doctor (for asthetic reasons). My doctor was certain I would loose my hair.

Anyhow, I let it grow as long as possible during that time to make up for the thinning. It worked. But I have read that generally 15% of people taking ABVD retain their hair.

Good Luck everyone, and stay positive!