Management of Acne Scars with Platelet Rich-Plasma (PRP) Therapy as a Tvaka Rasayanam

Abstract

Anupama Thakur and Rajesh Sood

Introduction: Acne vulgaris can lead to lifelong sequel 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 platelet releases a variety of growth factors which bring about tissue remodelling.

Aim: To study the efficacy and safety of PRP in managing acne vulgaris as tvak rasayanam at Skin Care Unit, R.G.G.P.G. Ayurvedic College, Paprola, Kangra (H.P).

Materials and Methods: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria twenty patients were included in the study. PRP was made by double spin method. The area to be treated was cleaned with spirit and betadine, the skin was stretched and activated PRP loaded in an insulin syringe was injected into and around the scars by multiple punctures.

Results: Out of 20 patients, 20% patients (4) 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. 50% patients (10) showed moderate improvement. In these patients grading of acne scars improved by 1. In 15% patients (3) although the grading did not changed but there was visible improvement in the appearance of the scars. In only 15% patients (3), here was no significant improvement was seen even after 4 sittings but texture of skin is mildly improved.

Conclusion: Platelet- Rich-Plasma (PRP) therapy is easy to perform. Done as an outpatient procedure. It doesn’t hamper the daily activities quality of the patient. It works well for superficial acne scars, providing good results with minimal side effects like erythema and edema which subside within 2-4 hrs. PRP is thus an effective modality for treating acne scars.

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