A Study of Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy in the Treatment of Melasma

Introduction: Melasma is a common acquired pigmentary disorder characterized by the presence of light-to-dark brown macules that occur on sun-exposed areas of skin. Melasma poses a great challenge, as its treatment can be often unsatisfactory. Aims: This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment with kojic acid application compared with topical kojic acid application alone in the treatment of melasma. Settings and Design: A comparative interventional study was carried out in the department of dermatology in a tertiary care hospital for a period of 6 months. Subjects and Methods: A total of 63 subjects 31 in Group A and 32 in Group B completed the study. Patients in Group A were treated with four PRP treatments every 2 weeks with topical 2% kojic acid daily for 6 months, and patients in Group B were treated with topical 2% kojic acid alone for 6 months. The modified Melasma Area and Severity Index scoring system (mMASI score) was used to assess the severity of melasma at baseline, and the cases were followed up at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-week intervals. Statistical Analysis Used: The difference in the mean scores of mMASI in each group at different timelines was calculated using one-way ANOVA and between the two groups at each visit was calculated using t -test. Results: The mean mMASI score was significantly lower in Group A compared to Group B at 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks. Conclusions: Intralesional PRP appears to be a safe and effective treatment for melasma.