Efficacy of Platlet Rich Plasma in Androgenic Alopecia: Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) helps in hair growth by the release of growth factors and cytokines. Also it has multifactorial capabilities can also be used to treat aging skin, facial scarring, and acne. Hence in our current review we critically examine the success of PRP in the field of dermatology, specifically to the role of PRP in hair restoration. Where possible, meta-analyses were used to evaluate the efficacy of PRP.

Materials and methods: This review directed an electronic systematic literature search in MEDLINE (PubMed) and EmBase. Methodological quality was evaluated by using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tool. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was pooled to estimate the relative outcome of bruxism on dental implant failures. Statistical analyses done by using Review Manager 5.1.

Results: In androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients, 3 monthly PRP injections showed exhibited greater efficacy over placebo as measured by change in total hair density (hair/cm² ) over the treatment period (mean difference: 25.61, 95% CI: 4.45 to 46.77; P=.02). The studies included in the meta-analysis used a half-head design, that may have influenced the results because of the effects PRP can induce. Organized studies recommend that 2 to 4 sessions of PRP collective with traditional therapies and techniques can help minimize acne scarring and facial burns, improve aesthetic results, and decrease recovery time. Nonetheless, data for these indications are lacking and are less robust in design.

Conclusion: It can be suggested that to achieve an improvement in hair restoration in patients with mild AGA, 3 initial monthly PRP injections should be given. Only upon completion of rigorous, randomized, controlled studies can standardized and effective PRP protocols for treating dermatology conditions such as acne scarring, facial burns, and aging skin be determined.