Platelet-rich plasma and microneedling improves hair growth in patients ofandrogenetic alopecia when used as an adjuvant to minoxidil.

BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a popular procedure for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

AIM: To ascertain the role of minoxidil 5% lotion alone versus minoxidil 5% lotion and PRP versus minoxidil 5% lotion, PRP with microneedling in AGA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ninety-three AGA patients with Hamilton-Norwood score 1-5 were grouped into three groups A, B, and C. Patients in group A (control group) were treated with minoxidil 5% lotion twice daily (n = 31), whereas patients in group B underwent treatment with minoxidil 5% lotion twice daily and PRP (n = 31), and group C patients received minoxidil 5% lotion twice daily, PRP, and microneedling (n = 31). Baseline and post-treatment photographs were taken along with dermoscopic evaluation. Selection of the dermoscopic variables included in the evaluation process was based on the published literature and dermoscopists' expertise and experience. Hair pull test was performed before and during follow-up.

RESULTS: Post-treatment, hair pull test was negative in 27 patients (87.1%, P < 0.01) of group C, 20 patients (64.5%, P < 0.05) of group B, and 15 patients (48.4%) of group A. Hair growth was better appreciated in group C (26/31) compared to groups B (17/31)and A (10/31).The patients' self-satisfaction score on a Likert scale was more than seven (high satisfaction) in 24/31 patients in group C. There was a statistically significant difference between three groups in terms of hair pull test, terminal-to-vellus hair ratio, and patient satisfaction score as determined by one-way ANOVA.

CONCLUSION: PRP with microneedling is better in comparison with PRP alone or minoxidil monotherapy in patients with AGA.