Low Level Laser versus Platelet-rich Plasma in Treatment of Alopecia Areata: A Randomized Controlled Intra-patient Comparative Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Non-scarring alopecia areata (AA) is a disease that is mediated through autoimmunity. Recently, autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and photobiomodulation (PBM), commonly known as low-level laser (or) light therapy (LLLT) have been suggested to provide a valuable role in stimulating the growth of hair follicles (HF) AIM: Compare between the significance and well-being of PRP and LLLT in the management of AA. PATIENTS AND METHODOLOGY: Thirty patients, each having three patches of AA participated in the study. Patches were assigned randomly to have one of the two treatments: PRP or LLLT. The third patch served as a control and received placebo treatment. PRP was done once weekly, whereas LLLT was done three sessions per week for a maximum of 6 weeks. The patients were followed up (FU) at 1 month and 3 months. The thickness and density of hair were evaluated by the folliscope. RESULTS: A noteworthy higher improvement was detected in the thickness and the density of hair in the PRP treated patches as evaluated by the folliscope and patients satisfaction. The obtained outcomes were sustained during the 12 weeks FU period in most of the patients. CONCLUSION: PRP and LLLT could be considered as efficacious alternatives for the treatments of AA with the least morbidity in addition to a little cost profit ratio.