Efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma therapy in systemic sclerosis and localized scleroderma; a systematic...

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and localized scleroderma (LoSc) are rare connective tissue diseases that are identified by skin thickening and hardening with different mechanisms of action. Although advancements in treatments have been achieved in recent years, these conditions remain a major cause of morbidity and currently lack a definitive cure. We sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment in individuals with LoSc and SSc. PubMed/Medline, Ovid-Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched until December 27th, 2024. A citation search was also carried out, and clinical studies published in English were eligible to be included. A total of 11 studies utilized PRP to treat different conditions of scleroderma. In limited and diffuse forms of SSc, PRP resulted in the improvement of mouth handicap in systemic sclerosis (MHISS) items, skin elasticity, skin ulcer healing, and vascularization both alone and alongside hyaluronic acid, autologous fat, and stromal vascular fraction. Moreover, PRP injections led to a significant decrease in the LoSc cutaneous assessment tool (LoSCAT), as well as a reduction in pain and disease symptoms. Furthermore, patients with en coupe de sabre experienced hair regrowth after PRP treatment. The adverse effects, which can be limited or diffuse, were mild and self-limited. PRP contains a considerable number of platelets, cytokines, and growth factors. PRP is considered a safe supplementary treatment option alongside standard therapy for both LoSc and SSc, with the potential to promote improvement in these patients, either as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches.