Khaberni - Increasing numbers of cancer patients are consuming biotin supplements to boost hair growth and strengthen nails during treatment, but experts warn of the risks these supplements pose to the accuracy of laboratory tests.
Dr. Brittany Dollmage, a specialist in dermatology and oncology at Ohio State University, explains that there is not enough evidence of the efficacy of oral biotin supplements in cancer patients, and they may mask important indicators in blood tests, which could delay treatment follow-up or conceal a recurrence of the disease.
The body uses biotin to build essential proteins for hair, skin, and nails, and deficiency is rare given its availability in everyday foods.
However, supplements may affect the results of prostate, thyroid, ovary, and breast tests, or hormones such as PSA, TSH, estrogen, and testosterone, increasing the risk of inaccurate results.
Brittany points out that more than half of her patients suffering from hair loss take biotin supplements on their own, often based on information from the internet or personal recommendations.
She also warned that some tests, such as troponin measurements, cannot have biotin discontinued prior to them, so it is advisable to abstain from supplements 72 hours before any blood test, or consider not taking them at all.
Minoxidil, approved by the FDA, is a safe and effective alternative for treating hair loss, used topically in the form of a cream or foam, with consideration for excluding pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Dollmage emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor before taking any supplements or treatments and relying on medical guidance rather than scattered information on the internet.
