Platelet-rich fibrin: A review of its role as a new treatment in androgenetic alopecia.

BACKGROUND: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a major cause of hair loss resulting from a complex interplay between various genes and hormones with the result being follicular miniaturization and altered hair cycle dynamics. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has a well-established role as adjunctive therapy in AGA but there are many limitations of it. In an attempt to overcome the shortcomings of PRP, liquid platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) was developed.

AIM: This article critically reviews the protocol for the preparation and clinical outcomes of PRF.

PATIENTS/METHODS: The articles published so far in the English language regarding the preparation and clinical outcomes of PRF were reviewed.

RESULTS: Among five studies analyzing various centrifugation speeds and centrifugation times, three of the studies favored low-speed centrifugation, whereas two studies did not support this methodology. A horizontal centrifuge may be preferred over a fixed-angle centrifuge for PRF. Five clinical studies on the use of PRF showed a significant effect on AGA.

CONCLUSION: At present, there is no consensus regarding the preparation of PRF. Most studies used fixed-angle centrifugation favored low centrifuge speed and less centrifugation time. Larger studies are needed to determine the optimal centrifugation force and time. A horizontal centrifuge may be preferred over a fixed-angle centrifuge due to the higher yield of platelets, and lesser shear trauma to the cells. In addition, larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm the benefits of PRF over PRP.