Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Dermatology and Venerology

Background: Acne scarring is a common yet challenging to treat problem. Facial resurfacing with fractional CO2 Laser is currently accepted to be one of the most effective treatments, yet it is associated with considerable morbidity and downtime interference with the daily activities of the patient in the post-treatment period. Autologous Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is rich medium of growth factors and cytokines which serve in replenishing the lost collagen and elastic fibers. Microneedling initiates collagen synthesis; this is achieved by causing minute injury to the dermis. Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling and PRP and compare it with Fractional CO2 Laser in treating acne scars. Patients and methods: Twenty patients with bilateral atrophic acne scars were enrolled. Each patient received 3 sessions with one month interval .The right side was treated with combined microneedling and PRP and the left side was treated with fractional CO2 Laser. Evaluation of response was done by clinical assessment and OCT imaging at baseline and 3 months after last session. Results: Both therapeutic modalities yielded statistically significant improvement of acne scars and statistically significant decrease in acne scars depth regarding OCT assessment. By comparing both modalities, there was no statistical significance regarding clinical and OCT improvement. Combined microneedling and PRP had less side effects and less down-time than fractional CO2 laser

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