Case Study: Androgenetic Alopecia in a 22-Year-Old Male and Treatment with PRP Therapy

by : Ashley Baldree

At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we see many young men concerned about progressive hair loss. This case highlights a 22-year-old male presenting with diffuse scalp thinning, ultimately diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) and opting for platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

Patient Presentation

A 22-year-old male presented as a new patient for evaluation of generalized hair loss on the scalp. The hair thinning had been ongoing for 5 months, was moderate in severity, and had gradually worsened.

He had no prior treatments other than over-the-counter Nutrafol supplements.

Dermatologic Examination

A focused exam of the scalp and face was performed with dermatoscopy. Findings included:

• Diffuse non-scarring hair loss across the scalp.

• Patterned thinning in the vertex and frontotemporal regions, consistent with androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

Impression and Plan

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Hair Loss)

• Diagnosis: Clinical findings consistent with AGA. Punch biopsy was discussed for further confirmation, but not pursued at this time.

• Treatment Options Reviewed:

  • Oral minoxidil

  • Finasteride

  • Spironolactone (off-label in men, rarely used)

  • Topical Rogaine (minoxidil)

  • Low-level laser therapy

  • Microneedling

  • Hair transplant surgery

  • PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy

• Side effects, benefits, and expectations were reviewed thoroughly.

Patient Decision

After an in-depth discussion, the patient elected to proceed with PRP therapy.

• Counseling included the fact that PRP is cosmetic and not covered by insurance.

• Patient was advised on what to expect from the procedure and the importance of follow-up.

Counseling

• Hair Care: AGA can be slowed with medications such as minoxidil and finasteride; hair transplantation is an option in advanced cases.

• Expectations: AGA is genetically pre-determined, slowly progressive, and most prominent in the vertex and frontal scalp.

• Monitoring: The patient was instructed to return if hair loss worsens or fails to improve with therapy.

Follow-Up

The patient was scheduled to begin PRP therapy and will follow up in 4 months for re-evaluation.

Key Takeaway

This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in male pattern hair loss. With a combination of modern therapies such as PRP, oral medications, and topical treatments, patients can often achieve significant improvement in hair density and quality.

At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, we specialize in advanced hair restoration options, including PRP therapy, oral and topical treatments, and counseling for hair loss prevention.