European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Background: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sudden hair loss. The management of this condition is challenging due to its unpredictable nature and limited therapeutic options. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TA) have emerged as potential treatments, but a comprehensive comparison is lacking. Methods: A prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Participants (n=120) aged 18-60 years with alopecia areata were randomized into PRP and intralesional TA groups. Primary outcomes included hair regrowth assessed through standardized photographs and the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score at baseline, post-third treatment session, and 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes comprised response rates, safety profiles, treatment response duration, and relapse rates. Statistical analysis employed appropriate tests. Results: Participants' baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. PRP demonstrated significantly higher hair regrowth rates at post-third session (55.3% vs. 41.2%) and 6-month follow-up (68.9% vs. 53.7%). Response rates were notably greater in the PRP group (83.3% vs. 67.5%). Safety profiles were similar. PRP treatment showed a longer treatment response duration (12.6 vs. 9.8 months) and comparable relapse rates (15% vs. 23.3%). Conclusion: This study highlights the superior efficacy of PRP over intralesional TA in alopecia areata treatment. PRP exhibited higher hair regrowth and response rates, longer treatment response duration, and comparable safety and relapse rates. PRP presents as a promising therapeutic option for managing alopecia areata.