Injectable platelet-rich fibrin as a valid therapeutic option for inactive linear morphea (en coup de saber): report of cases

OBJECTIVES: Localized scleroderma, also called morphea, is an inflammatory cutaneous disorder characterized by sclerosis of the skin and underlying tissues. Morphea is currently classified into 4 subtypes: limited, generalized, linear and mixed. Linear morphea in an en coup de saber pattern (LScs) manifests as band-like, atrophic lesions predominantly affecting the frontoparietal area, leading to facial contour defects and skin pigmentation. However, pharmacological treatments for LScs are limited in meeting the aesthetic expectations of patients. Recently, autologous platelet concentrates have shown great therapeutic potential for tissue regeneration and wound healing, while few studies have been conducted on their use in LScs patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: We present the first report of two patients with inactive LScs that were improved by treatment with injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF), a second-generation autologous platelet concentrate. Satisfactory aesthetic outcomes were both achieved in two patients within 5 injection sessions, with only mild pain and transient erythema after injection. CONCLUSIONS: Injectable platelet-rich fibrin can be a novel, valid therapeutic alternative for morphea management.