Case Report: Oral Minoxidil and PRP Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia in a 41-Year-Old Male | Village Dermatology Katy & Houston, TX
by: Caroline Vaughn
Introduction
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern hair loss, is the most common cause of progressive hair thinning in men. Many patients initially try over-the-counter treatments like topical minoxidil without success. At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we offer advanced therapies such as oral minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to help slow progression and stimulate regrowth. This case highlights a 41-year-old male with longstanding hair loss.
Patient Presentation
The patient, a 41-year-old male, presented with:
Generalized hair thinning on the scalp
Symptoms present for 2 years, gradually worsening
Prior trial of over-the-counter topical minoxidil, without significant improvement
He sought evaluation and treatment options for hair restoration.
Examination
A focused scalp examination revealed:
Patterned thinning at the vertex and mid-occipital scalp
No scarring or evidence of inflammatory alopecia
Dermatoscopic findings consistent with androgenetic alopecia
The patient was otherwise well developed, alert, and in no acute distress.
Diagnosis
Androgenetic Alopecia (L64.8)
Management Plan
Diagnostic Approach
A punch biopsy was recommended to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hair loss.
Treatment Options Discussed
The patient was counseled extensively on treatment choices:
Medical therapies: oral minoxidil, oral finasteride, topical minoxidil, spironolactone
Adjuncts: low-level laser therapy, nutritional supplements, hair transplantation
Procedural options: platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and Alma TED therapy (cosmetic, not insurance-covered)
Risks, benefits, and expectations of each were reviewed in detail.
Treatment Chosen
The patient elected to start:
Oral minoxidil 2.5 mg daily (with monitoring for low blood pressure)
PRP therapy, initiated during the visit, with additional sessions planned
Follow-Up
4–6 months for reassessment of response
Baseline photos taken to document progress
AGA handout and PRP pricing reviewed with the patient
Conclusion
This case highlights a comprehensive approach to male pattern hair loss, combining oral minoxidil with PRP therapy. At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, we tailor treatment plans to each patient’s goals, offering both medical and procedural options for optimal hair restoration outcomes.
