Commentary on the Effect of Plasma Rich in Growth Factors on Pattern Hair Loss
May 2017
in “
Dermatologic Surgery
”
plasma-rich growth factors PRGF pattern hair loss male pattern hair loss female pattern hair loss hair density hair diameter terminal to vellus hair ratios perifollicular angiogenesis perivascular infiltrate alopecia facial rejuvenation finasteride minoxidil low-level light therapy hair transplant transplanted grafts Propecia Rogaine LLLT
TLDR PRGF is a promising treatment for hair loss with some patient benefits.
The commentary discusses a study by Anitua and colleagues from 2017, which provided evidence supporting the use of plasma-rich growth factors (PRGF) in treating male and female pattern hair loss. The study showed increased hair density, diameter, and terminal to vellus hair ratios in patients treated with PRGF, with high patient satisfaction reported. Histological findings included increased perifollicular angiogenesis and decreased perivascular infiltrate. While PRGF is widely used for various dermatological conditions, including different types of alopecia and for facial rejuvenation, the exact percentage of patients who benefit from PRGF and the duration of its effectiveness remain unknown. The commentary highlights the need for better designed, longer-term studies to determine optimal treatment protocols, the volume of PRGF needed, maintenance requirements, potential side effects, and its effectiveness as a monotherapy or in combination with other treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, or low-level light therapy. Hair transplant surgeons have also reported improved growth of transplanted grafts with PRGF. The commentary concludes that PRGF is a promising treatment for hair loss, benefiting at least some patients, and commends Anitua and colleagues for their contribution to the field.
