Case Report: Advanced Hair Loss Therapy with PRP and Dutasteride in a 69-Year-Old Woman
Hair thinning in women over 60 is common—but it doesn't have to be permanent or unmanaged. At Reena Jogi MD Dermatology in Houston and Katy, Texas, we offer individualized treatment plans for chronic female hair loss, incorporating advanced therapies like PRP injections and oral hormone modulation. This case report highlights a 69-year-old female patient with long-standing hair thinning who began a transformative new treatment protocol.
Chief Complaint: Diffuse, Long-Term Hair Thinning
This patient, a 69-year-old woman, had been dealing with gradual, moderate, diffuse scalp hair thinning for several years. Her family history included hair loss in her mother, and she had previously tried over-the-counter Rogaine (topical minoxidil) with early success but discontinued it due to diminishing results over time.
Upon visiting our clinic, she was using:
Topical minoxidil 7% solution
Oral finasteride (Propecia) for approximately one year
However, she noted minimal ongoing improvement with her current regimen.
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis
A thorough scalp examination and dermatoscopic analysis revealed signs consistent with:
Androgenetic Alopecia (L64.8): Female pattern hair loss
Diffuse thinning with a widened midline part
Preserved frontal hairline
No signs of scarring or inflammation
This pattern of loss is genetically driven and typically progresses slowly. Despite previous treatments, the patient's case called for a more targeted and robust approach.
Treatment Strategy: PRP and Dutasteride
After reviewing all options—including oral minoxidil, laser caps, hair supplements, and procedural interventions—we recommended a dual-pronged strategy:
1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
The patient elected to begin a series of PRP injections, starting with the first session during the visit:
7 cc of PRP was injected subdermally across areas of thinning
The procedure was performed under sterile conditions with no complications
Post-procedure instructions included gentle hair care, avoiding dyeing, and continued use of minoxidil
She is scheduled to return in one month for PRP session #2
2. Oral Dutasteride (0.5 mg daily)
As an alternative to finasteride, we initiated dutasteride, a more potent 5-alpha reductase inhibitor known to block DHT at multiple sites:
Patient was counseled on side effects: low libido, mood changes, breast tenderness
Strict instructions were given due to teratogenic risks, although she is postmenopausal
3. Continued Supportive Therapies
Topical minoxidil 7% solution: 1–2x daily
Hair supplement liquid (continued as adjunctive support)
Expectations and Follow-Up
We discussed realistic timelines for improvement, noting that significant visible results may take 3–6 months, particularly with PRP and hormone-modulating medications. The patient was encouraged by this plan and committed to regular follow-up.
Conclusion: Empowering Women with Chronic Hair Loss in Houston and Katy
This case illustrates the effectiveness of evolving, layered therapies for female pattern hair loss, especially in postmenopausal women. At Reena Jogi MD Dermatology, we prioritize education, cosmetic precision, and medical expertise to restore confidence in women facing this often-overlooked condition.
If you’re seeking long-term solutions for thinning hair, schedule your personalized hair loss consultation in Houston or Katy today.