The Effect of Platelet-rich Plasma in Treating Androgenic Alopecia in Female Libyan Patients with Curly Hair

Abstract

Androgenic alopecia is the common type of non-scarring hair loss affecting the scalp in both males and females with genetic pre-determined. Platelet-rich plasma is a preparation of platelets in concentrated plasma. This method is applied for treating different types of alopecia. The present study includes 24 female Libyan patients with androgenic alopecia female pattern. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in treating androgenic alopecia in female Libyan patients with curly hair. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted during October 2015 to August 2016 on 24 female Libyan patients with androgenic alopecia female pattern; most of them had have curly hair type, and the age group between 28-46 years, with a mean age of 34 years. All the patients were considered for platelet-rich plasma therapy, suffered from androgenic alopecia. They were chosen based on the fact that various hair loss treatments were previously used without evident improvement. Prior to platelet-rich plasma treatment, written consent was obtained from the patients. Additionally, the patients were haematologically and serologically investigated. The study began by conducting the hair pull test, followed by injecting platelet-rich plasma of a total volume (2-4cc) in each visit with an insulin syringe over affected areas of the scalp and treatment was repeated every three weeks for four sessions. The improvements of patients were evaluated at the end of 16 weeks. Results: The patients between the first and fourth session were found with a good reduction in hair loss. Pictures showed a moderate improvement of the hair restoration and coverage. Hair loss was marked per cm2, after the complete treatment of platelet-rich plasma. Hair count number per cm2was found to be increased per cm2, and hair growth was noticed clinically. A good reduction in hair loss was observed especially after the fourth session. Prior to the treatment of platelet-rich plasma, 22 patients (91.6%) had a positive hair pull test while after the treatment; the pull test was negative for 16 patients (67%). Conclusion: Administration of platelet-rich plasma had a significant effect on female pattern hair loss, and it is a safe, biocompatible and low-cost treatment. It is a highly effective option for treating androgenic alopecia in female Libyan patients with curly hair type. Overall, the patients showed a good satisfaction, suggesting that the treatment has a beneficial role in hair restoration, thus increases the appreciation of the platelet-rich plasma treatment.