Platelet Derived Growth Factor and the Clinical Outcome of Platelet Rich Plasma in Female Pattern Hair Loss

Abstract

ndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common pattern of scalp hair loss in both men and women. It results from shortening of the anagen phase of the hair cycle and subsequently, miniaturization of hair follicles. This disease is important because of the intense emo-tional distress it causes by disrupting self-image leading to overwhelming effects on the patient's quality of life. Diagnosis and therapy of hair and scalp diseases were in the last years subject to significant progress. One of the major developments was employing imaging techniques, including hair and scalp folliscope. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is defined as autologous blood with a concentration of platelets above baseline values. Growth factors released by platelets recruit reparative cells and may augment wound healing. It has been found to be beneficial in dermatology, for example in acne scarring, wound healing and fat transplantation. It has also been shown to promote hair survival and growth, both in vitro and in vivo. Activated PRP stimulates proliferati