Title : Autologous platelet-rich plasma as a therapeutic option for male pattern androgenetic alopecia: a case series
Abstract:
Background: Male pattern Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) is a common, progressive hair disorder characterized by androgen- and genetics-driven follicular miniaturization and shortened anagen duration. Although topical minoxidil and oral 5α-reductase inhibitors remain first-line therapies, treatment response is heterogeneous and long-term adherence is often limited by side-effect concerns and patient preference. Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has emerged as a regenerative option in hair disorders. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a platelet concentrate rich in growth factors and cytokines that may enhance perifollicular angiogenesis, modulate inflammation, stimulate dermal papilla activity, and promote transition into the anagen phase. This case series evaluates the clinical response of male Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) patients following a standardized short-course Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) protocol.
Observation: This case series included 6 male patients diagnosed with male pattern androgenetic alopecia involving the frontal and/or vertex scalp, classified clinically using the Hamilton–Norwood scale. None of the patients had received recent procedural treatment for hair loss prior to enrollment. All patients underwent a standardized PRP protocol consisting of three intradermal scalp injections administered at 1-month intervals (baseline/Day 0, Day 30, and Day 60). Each session involved uniform PRP delivery across the affected scalp regions using the same preparation and injection technique. Clinical outcomes were assessed at month 3 (Day 90), corresponding to 90 days after the initial injection and 30 days after completion of the third Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) session. During the early treatment phase (day 30), most patients reported a subjective reduction in daily hair shedding, particularly during hair washing and combing, suggesting an early stabilization of the hair cycle. By day 60, following the second PRP session, patients demonstrated more evident clinical changes. At final evaluation (day 90), corresponding to 30 days after completion of the third PRP session, all patients exhibited clinically observable improvement in hair density and scalp coverage. These included gradual increases in hair shaft thickness, improved hair anchoring, and early signs of increased hair density in previously thinned vertex and mid-scalp regions. Clinical improvement of male pattern androgenetic alopecia assessed using the Hamilton–Norwood scale was observed, with scores improving from a range of grade 3 vertex to grade 6 on day 0 to a range of grade 3 to grade 5 by day 90. The treatment was well tolerated, with only mild, transient injection-site discomfort reported and no significant adverse events observed.
Key message: This case series supports autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) as a feasible and well-tolerated therapeutic option for male pattern androgenetic alopecia, with clinically observable improvement following a three-session, monthly Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) regimen. Early response observed at month 3 (Day 90) suggests that short-course Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) protocols may yield meaningful cosmetic benefit within a relatively short evaluation window. Larger controlled studies with standardized outcome measures are warranted to determine optimal dosing, treatment intervals, durability of response, and patient selection criteria.
