Evaluation of platelet-rich plasma on hair regrowth and lesional T-cell cytokine expression in alopecia areata: A randomized observer-blinded, placebo-controlled, split-head pilot study

Abstract

Platelet-rich plasma has shown some promise in the treatment of alopecia areata. To evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma on hair regrowth and lesional T-cell cytokine expression in alopecia areata. This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, split-head study involving 27 patients with alopecia areata (Severity of Alopecia Tool score ≥25%). Alopecia patches on either side of the scalp were randomized to receive 3 intradermal injections of platelet-rich plasma or normal saline at monthly intervals and evaluated 3months after the last session. Lesional T-cell cytokine messenger RNA expression was compared pre- and posttreatment in the platelet-rich plasma-treated sites. The mean Severity of Alopecia Tool score did not change significantly compared with baseline with either platelet-rich plasma or placebo injections at any visit; however, the mean percentage reduction in the score in the platelet-rich plasma arm was more than in the placebo arm (9.05%±36.48% vs 4.99%±33.88%; P=.049) at final assessment. The mean interferon gamma (P=.001) and interleukin 17 cytokine (P=.009) messenger RNA expression decreased, whereas the mean interleukin 10 (P=.049) and FOXP3 (P=.011) messenger RNA expression increased significantly after platelet-rich plasma treatment. Small sample size and a relatively short follow-up. Platelet-rich plasma was found to have limited efficacy in alopecia areata. However, it may play a role in restoring immune balance in the alopecic patches.