Breast cancer: here is the medical device used by Mary Patrux to avoid losing her hair despite heavy chemo

A rigorous protocol to “stay yourself”

While covering major sporting events, the journalist was also waging a secret battle against the recurrence of her breast cancer. “Three weeks ago, I completed 16 rounds of chemo. My breast cancer has returned. I learned it just before going to Wimbledon.” she confides.

Despite a heavy protocol combining 4 courses of EC (Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide) and 12 of Taxol – a treatment known to cause almost systematic alopecia – Mary Patrux managed to keep her hair. His ally? A cooling helmet.

For the journalist, preserving her hair was not just a question of aesthetics, but a way to maintain a normal life and protect herself from the gaze of others. Thanks to the headset, she was able to continue working and attend parent-teacher meetings without her illness being the topic of conversation.

However, this success requires iron discipline. The helmet, cooled to –30 degrees, must be worn for approximately eight hours per session and changed every 25 minutes. Added to this are strict daily rules:

• Only one hair wash per week with mineral water;
• Using a silk pillowcase;
• A total ban on any source of heat or styling.

How does the cooling helmet work?

Dr Ivan Pourmir, oncologist at Georges-Pompidou hospital, explains that this device is now common in cancer departments, particularly during the administration of taxanes (such as Paclitaxel).

“The principle is based on vasoconstriction” explains Dr. Pourmir. “Under the influence of cold, the small blood vessels that irrigate the scalp narrow. This allows that area to be less exposed to chemotherapy while the patient receives their treatment, thereby protecting the cells that produce keratin.”

The expert specifies that this mechanism can also be applied to the hands and feet via mittens and cooling boots to protect the nails, whose structure is close to that of hair. Added to this is a silica-based varnish, which patients can wear to also protect them.

Real but variable effectiveness

If it worked well for Mary Patrux, Dr. Pourmir recalls that results can vary from one patient to another.

“It works very well in some people, but there are limitations. The chemotherapy continues to circulate through the body after the infusion, while the helmet is usually removed for convenience. Additionally, it is not yet clear precisely why some people respond better to the device than others.”

The oncologist also emphasizes that the treatment is not dangerous, although the feeling of cold can be particularly unpleasant for the patient. He also recalls that this system can be offered to men, although the psychological impact is less strong for them. “Baldness can occur in young men and is not associated with the disease, unlike in women. However, they can also use this helmet.

Beyond the headset: global support

In addition to the cooling helmet, Mary Patrux emphasized the importance of supportive care in her journey. She cites acupuncture in particular to help her cope with the side effects. Medical eyebrow tattooing has also helped prevent hair loss. And of course, the unwavering support of those close to him.

Today, while she continues her care calmly, the journalist hopes that her experience will help other women. “My experience is my own. I know that for many other women, the path is harder sometimes. I think deeply of you.”