TLDR PRP injection for hair growth can cause reversible vision loss due to inflammatory optic neuropathy.
This case report presents a rare instance of reversible vision loss in a 22-year-old female following platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for hair growth, occurring 1 month post-procedure. The vision impairment was due to inflammatory optic neuropathy, not direct vascular occlusion, and was successfully treated with high-dose corticosteroids, resolving within a month. The presence of a pituitary microadenoma raises questions about PRP's role in unmasking latent neurovascular issues. The report highlights the need for careful risk assessment, informed consent updates to include potential severe ocular complications, and further research on PRP's systemic effects.
28 citations
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April 2024 in “Skin Research and Technology” Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is effective and safe for improving skin appearance.
42 citations
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May 2016 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Using platelet-rich plasma, which is full of growth factors, can help treat pattern hair loss.
214 citations
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September 2015 in “Stem Cells Translational Medicine” Platelet-rich plasma injections significantly improved hair regrowth and thickness in patients with hair loss.
March 2025 in “Authorea (Authorea)” PRP injections for hair growth can cause temporary vision loss, which may be resolved with treatment.
13 citations
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June 2016 in “Journal of neurological surgery” Using L-PRF membranes for skull base surgery might help healing, but more research is needed.
July 2025 in “International Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy Sciences” Higher stress levels may worsen alopecia areata, suggesting stress management is important for treatment.
June 2020 in “Aesthetic Surgery Journal” Estradiol-rich plasma can increase hair density faster and more effectively in male pattern baldness treatment than regular plasma.
January 2019 in “Springer eBooks” Platelet-rich plasma therapy may have benefits and is generally safe, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.
