Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss

Abstract Background Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common hair loss disorder in women. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides an option for patients recalcitrant to the currently approved therapies. As there are many methods for the preparation of PRP, the most suitable for AGA therapy is not yet clear. Aims To compare the efficacy between single and double spin PRP injections in treatment of FPHL and to assess the relationship between the concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the PRP preparation and the treatment results obtained. Patients and Methods 15 female patients with FPHL were enrolled. Each patient was subjected to intradermal injection of PRP (prepared by double-spin method) into the right half of the scalp, in addition to intradermal injection of PRP (prepared by singlespin method) into the left half of the scalp in the form of three treatment sessions three weeks apart. Evaluation of treatment response was done through comparing patients' global photographs, assessment of patients' satisfaction and folliscopic assessment before and after treatment. Results Our results showed clinically significant improvement by comparing patients' photographs in most of the treated patients. In addition, folliscopy revealed significant change of the terminal hair density in the right half of the scalp following treatment sessions.VEGF concentration didn't differ significantly between double-spin and single-spin prepared PRP, also it didn't differ significantly upon calcium activation. Conclusions PRP is an effective treatment modality for FPHL. Double-spin prepared PRP could yield better results in the treatment of FPHL than the single-spin method. However, adding Calcium gluconate prior to PRP injection is of no benefit as it didn't significantly increase the release of VEGF. Yet, further studies discussing different PRP preparation protocols and involving a larger number of cases are needed to minimize statistical errors and to detect the most accurate PRP preparation method with the greatest yield of growth factors.

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Skin care physicians insight on epidemiological patterns, diagnosis and treatment modalities for female pattern hair loss

International Journal of Research in Dermatology ◽

10.18203/issn.2455-4529.intjresdermatol20204997 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 7 (1) ◽

pp. 11

Author(s):

Krishna Rajesh Kilaru ◽

Suhasini Attada ◽

Pooja Munnangi ◽

Manogna Chowdary Kilaru

Keyword(s):

Side Effects ◽

Hair Loss ◽

Treatment Guidelines ◽

Age Of Onset ◽

Platelet Rich Plasma ◽

Diagnosis And Treatment ◽

Treatment Modalities ◽

Common Side Effect ◽

Medication Cost ◽

Female Pattern Hair Loss

Background: Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a common cause of hair loss in women characterized by a diffuse reduction in hair density over the crown and frontal scalp with retention of the frontal hairline. The underlying pathophysiology is multifactorial. There are no universally agreed treatment guidelines available. The objective of the study was to understand the diagnosis and treatment pattern of female pattern hair loss and the role of minoxidil topical formulation and its combination in the management of FPHL.Methods: Predesigned questionnaire on FPHL was prepared based on review of literature and was filled by 80 consultant dermatologists. Recorded data was statistically analyzed.Results: Common age of onset of FPHL was between 20 to 30 years. Majority (96.25%) have reported FPHL in association with psychological morbidity. The most preferred treatment in mild and severe FPHL was minoxidil 5% and platelet rich plasma (PRP) plus minoxidil respectively. Most dermatologists (47.5%) treated with minoxidil for over 6 months. Majority (27.5%) reported flaking as the most common side effect with minoxidil followed by dryness, scalp irritation and itching. Majority (27.5%) observed that long treatment duration was contributing to non-compliance followed by medication cost and side effects. Majority of the dermatologists (90%) felt the need for treatment guidelines in the current Indian scenario.Conclusions: Minoxidil was the most common preferred treatment for mild and severe FPHL. PRP is the most common choice of combination therapy with minoxidil. Minimizing side effects, patient education and universal treatment guidelines can help manage FPHL better.

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