Use of autologous platelet-rich plasma in androgenetic alopecia in women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to verify the efficacy of using autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in female pattern alopecia (FPA). Background: Androgenetic alopecia is the leading cause of hair loss in men andwomen and often impacts self-esteem and quality of life. Data sources: MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and EMBASE up to May 2021. Study selection and data extraction: We identified all studies evaluating the effect of PRP in FPA. A narrative synthesis was performed from data on the efficacy of PRP treatment and adverse effects; quantitative results of PRP use compared to control treatment for female androgenetic alopecia (AGA) were synthesized. The outcomes analyzed were terminal density and hair thickness. Results: Seven articles were selected for this review. Meta-analysis showed that PRP-based interventions were able to increase terminal hair density compared to control (standardized mean difference (SMD)=2.98, 95% confidence intervals (CIs)=1.10, 4.85), with no significant increase in hair thickness (SMD = 1.16, 95% CI= −0.96, 3.28). During and after treatment, no major side effects were reported by patients or researchers. Conclusions: The use of autologous PRP injections in female AGA seems to be promising, with more consistent results on terminal hair density. However, caution is recommended in the interpretation of these results until they can be replicated in larger and more representative samples. PROSPERO registration number CRD42021257154.