Role of Growth Factors-rich Plasma (Activated Platelet-rich Plasma) in Androgenic Alopecia: Literature Review and Suggested Treatment Protocol

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) has become a prevalent hair fall dysfunction due to genetic as well as hormonal effects distinguished by androgen-related gradual weakening of the scalp hair with a sequence. Around turn 60, 45 percent of males and 35 percent of females come down with AGA. Owing to the small number of successful AGA therapies, Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) has been an attractive alternative therapeutic approach. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is being proposed for the incorporation of greater levels of growth factors and certain other biologically active substances in wounded lesions to achieve the specific healing objectives. PRP is already being included in dentistry and cosmetic surgery for about four decades. Even the usefulness of this autologous substance in both these fields seems to be well known. Notably, in treating different cosmetic procedures, PRP is already progressively seen because its high constituents of platelet-derived growth factors and cytokines may improve the biochemical mechanisms correlated with tissue repair and regeneration. After activation, platelets within the PRP secrete various growth factors that exhibit the results of hair regeneration. However, PRP may be prepared with different protocols and procedures. Differences could influence the character and possible effectiveness of the end PRP product in the availability of RBCs and WBCs, the introduction of thrombin or calcium chloride to trigger fibrin initiation, and pH-altering substances. A standard procedure for PRP preparation and application and a framework to assess results have not been developed, though many research works have been published. Thereby, the subsequent research article presents a proposed treatment protocol for AGA by platelets-rich plasma (PRP), which has been confirmed after reviewing different studies performed by researchers that exhibit PRP's efficacy in AGA.