Treatment of Periorbital Hyperpigmentation Using Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

摘要

Background: The term Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a generic term used to describe a plasma suspension obtained from whole blood, prepared so as to contain platelet concentrations higher than those normally found in circulating blood. The mechanism of action of PRP is based on the fact that platelets contain many growth factors. These factors have a well-known role in the process of tissue repair. Periorbital hyperpigmentation refers to conditions that present with relative darkness of the periorbital eyelids. It has multifactorial causes like sun exposure, smoking, alcoholism and sleep deprivation. Various treatments have been proposed for periorbital hyperpigmentation but without clear-cut results. This study, was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of periorbital hyperpigmentation in Jordanian patients. Patients and Methods:This is an open therapeutic trial study performed at Laser Care Clinic in Amman, Jordan during the period from July, 1~(st) 2013 to July, 1~(st) 2014. Fifty patients (46 females and 4 males) with periorbital hyperpigmentation were included in this study. The treatment course consisted of three sessions of autologous platelet-rich plasma injections into the periorbital area as well as the whole face with one month apart in between the injections. Therapeutic outcomes were assessed by standardized digital photography. Results: The final results after 6 months were as follows: two patients (4%) reported excellent improvement, six patients (12%) significant improvement, twenty three patients (46%) moderate improvement, and nineteen patients (38%) mild improvement in the appearance of the dark circles.Conclusions:PRP is a useful treatment for periorbital hyperpigmentation and further comparative studies of other treatment modalities are highly recommended.