Platelet-rich plasma injection is effective and safe for the treatment of alopecia

Background: Mesotherapy has become a new method for the treatment of different types of alopecia. However, there is a paucity of data in the literature about its efficacy and side effects. In this retrospective study, safety, efficacy, and feasibility of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections were assessed. Methods: Between October 2009 and October 2010, 42 patients (8 women and 34 men) with hair loss or androgenic alopecia were included in this study. Before each session, the hair pull test was performed three times. A total volume of 8-12 cc was injected by using 32 or 30.5 G needles. The treatment was repeated five times over a period of 2 months. Outcome measures were assessed after 3 months by clinical examination, macroscopic photos, pull clinical test, and the patient's overall satisfaction. Results: Before treatment, 90.5 % of our patients had a positive pull test with a mean number of eight hairs. After the third session, the pull test was negative in all patients with an average number of three hairs. Global pictures showed a significant improvement in hair volume and quality, which was confirmed by a high overall patient satisfaction. The results were even more obvious in patients who suffered from alopecia for less than 2 years. Poorer results were found in patients with marked alopecia type VI-VII according Norwood classification in men. Conclusions: PRP injections are simple and efficient, have minimal morbidity with a low cost-to-benefit ratio and can be regarded a valuable alternative for the treatment of alopecia. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.