Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections and Scalp Cutaneous Malignancies: Clinical Implications and Knowledge Gaps

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are effective for treating androgenetic alopecia, but there are theoretical concerns about the risk of cutaneous malignancy due to concentrated growth factors in UV-exposed scalps. The article reviews hypotheses linking PRP to scalp skin cancer risk, including potential oncogenic mechanisms like PDGF-mediated signaling, and protective effects such as improved photoprotection and antiproliferative findings from related blood products. Although direct PRP-specific data are lacking, the evidence supports PRP's safety, highlighting the need for prospective studies, routine scalp surveillance, and patient counseling on photoprotection.