Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of pattern hair loss: A review

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a solution derived from whole blood that is enriched in the platelet fraction. Platelets serve as a reservoir of growth factors and cytokines. When platelets are activated in vivo, signaling molecules are released into the immediate microenvironment and activate receptors for various pathways. PRP has been applied to bedsores to promote healing. Over the last decade, it has been used as a valuable therapeutic method in various specialties such as maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine. Only recently has PRP been utilized for dermatologic purposes, psrticularly, for the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss.
In this review, we discuss molecular and cellular pathways up-regulated by PRP important in hair folliculogenesis, and examine clinical evidence from all previously published studies involving the use of PRP for pattern hair loss.