Comparison of Effectiveness of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) versus 30% Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) in the Treatment of Acne Scars

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of intradermal platelet-rich plasma with 30% Trichloroacetic acid in treating atrophic acne scars.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Tertiary Care Hospital of Multan Pakistan, from Aug 2019 to Sep 2020.

Methodology: A total of 76 patients (38 in each group), were enrolled in the study. Platelet-rich plasma treatment was given to Group-A, and 30% Trichloroacetic acid treatment was given to Group-B patients. Platelet-rich plasma was injected in the dermis with an insulin syringe while 30%Trichloracetic acid was applied with a cotton tip applicator. The effectiveness of treatment was measured by Goodman and Baron quantitative acne scar scale.

Results: A total of 76 patients with atrophic acne scars were included in the study. The mean age of patients in Plate rich plasma Group was 29.63±5.08 years and 29.92±5.85 years in the 30% Trichloroacetic acid Group. Platelet Rich Plasma was an effective treatment of atrophic acne scar (p= 0.030) with post-procedure improvement in the Goodman and Baron quantitative acne scar scale.

Conclusion: Atrophic acne scar treatment with intradermal Plate-rich plasma is more effective than 30% Trichloroacetic acid.