Efficacy and safety of platelet rich plasma (PRP) as monotherapy in the management of acne scars in a tertiary care centre

Introduction: Acne vulgaris can lead to lifelong sequelae in the form of atrophic or hypertrophic scars, depending on the degree of inflammation. Acne scar management remains a challenge to dermatologists. Platelet rich plasma (PRP), in which the platelets are in a highly concentrated form, has shown its effect in accelerating tissue repair and wound healing. The platelets release a variety of growth factors which bring about tissue remodelling. Aim: To study the efficacy and safety of PRP in treating acne scars at a tertiary care centre in South India. Materials and Method: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria forty patients were included in the study. PRP was prepared by double spin method. The area to be treated was cleaned with spirit, the skin was stretched and activated PRP loaded in an insulin syringe was injected into and around the scars through multiple punctures. The procedure was repeated every 4 weeks for 6 months. Results: Out of 40 patients, 42.5% patients (17) showed marked improvement in the grading of acne scars i.e., they improved up to grade 1 or there was an improvement by 2 grades. 35% patients (14) showed moderate improvement i.e., grading of acne scar improved by 1. In 15% (6) patients, although the grading did not change, there was visible improvement in the appearance of the scars. In 7.5% patients (3), there was no improvement even after 6 sittings of PRP, probably requiring combination with other treatment modalities. Conclusion: Platelet rich plasma therapy is easy to perform. Done as an outpatient procedure, it does not hamper the daily activities of the patient. It works well for superficial acne scars, providing good results with minimal side effects like erythema and edema that subside within 2-6 hours. PRP is thus an effective modality for treating acne scars.