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Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss affecting both men and women, characterized by progressive thinning of hair, particularly in the scalp's vertex and frontal areas. Treatments such as minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have been developed to manage AGA, each with distinct mechanisms and efficacy profiles. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of Minoxidil, Dermaroller, and PRP in treating AGA, evaluating their impact on hair growth and patient satisfaction. Methodology: This prospective comparative parallel-group interventional study was conducted on the outpatient department of Dermatology, tertiary hospital, between December 2022 and May 2023. Where male participants aged 18-45 years with grade II, III, or IV AGA were enrolled. Ninety patients were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A received 5% minoxidil twice daily; Group B received the same minoxidil regimen with monthly dermaroller treatment; Group C received 5% minoxidil along with monthly PRP injections. Participants were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 5 months using photographic documentation and dermoscopy to measure hair growth improvements. Results: The mean age of participants was 29.90 ± 5.50 years, with a balanced gender distribution (1:1 male to female ratio) and a significant family history of AGA (70%). PRP with minoxidil demonstrated superior efficacy compared to minoxidil alone or minoxidil with dermaroller, showing significant improvements in hair counts at both 3 months (p=0.01) and 5 months (p<0.001). Dermaroller with minoxidil also showed improvements, though not statistically significant compared to minoxidil alone. Secondary efficacy analysis revealed significant shifts towards hair growth enhancement in the PRP + minoxidil group. Conclusion: PRP combined with minoxidil represents a promising and effective treatment option for AGA, offering superior outcomes compared to minoxidil alone or minoxidil with dermaroller. This combination therapy enhances hair growth through its regenerative effects on hair follicles, making it a valuable option for patients seeking non-surgical interventions with high satisfaction rates.
Yesmeen et al. (Wed,) studied this question.