Platelet-Rich Plasma: Applications in Dermatology

The 2015 document highlights the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in dermatology for treating skin ulcers, skin aging, and alopecia, but notes the lack of sufficient scientific evidence for its official recognition. It reports mixed results, with some case series and controlled studies showing promise, while a meta-analysis of 9 trials with 325 patients did not show significant healing benefits for skin ulcers. For skin aging, a randomized clinical trial with 100 patients found PRP more effective than hyaluronic acid. In treating alopecia, PRP was shown to improve hair density and a randomized, double-blind trial with 45 patients indicated significant improvement in alopecia areata. The document calls for more robust clinical trials to confirm PRP's efficacy and safety, despite its current consideration as safe due to its autologous nature.