Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation by attacking the joints. While traditional treatment methods focus on alleviating symptoms and slowing disease progression, biological and regenerative treatment options have gained attention in recent years. In this context, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy stands out as a method that supports natural healing processes and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. PRP treatment has significant potential to help maintain joint health and improve the quality of life for RA patients.
1. The Biological Effects of PRP on Rheumatoid Arthritis
PRP is a plasma component obtained from the patient's own blood, containing a high concentration of platelets. Platelets are rich in growth factors and cytokines, which support tissue regeneration. The main effects of PRP in RA treatment can be summarized as follows:
Reducing Inflammation: PRP contains transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), which suppress the inflammatory response within the joints. This reduces pain levels and improves mobility in patients.
Cartilage and Synovial Tissue Repair: PRP promotes cartilage regeneration through growth factors such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This effect can slow the progression of RA and prevent joint deformities.
Modulating the Immune System: PRP supports macrophage M2 polarization, which helps regulate inflammatory responses and control autoimmune reactions. This mechanism may alleviate the progressive effects of the disease.
Clinical studies have shown that RA patients receiving PRP injections experience significant reductions in joint pain and improvements in functional capacity. Compared to traditional steroid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), PRP is gaining interest due to its minimal side effects.
2. Clinical Application and Effectiveness of PRP Therapy
PRP therapy is applied as a complementary treatment to improve joint function, particularly in moderate to advanced RA patients. The procedure generally consists of the following steps:
Blood Collection and PRP Preparation: Blood is drawn from the patient and processed via centrifugation to isolate platelet-rich plasma.
Injection Application: PRP is injected directly into the affected joint under ultrasound guidance.
Treatment Protocol: Depending on the patient’s condition, several sessions may be administered at 3-4 week intervals.
Studies on PRP therapy have reported up to a 50% reduction in pain levels and significant improvements in joint range of motion. Additionally, PRP has been found to provide longer-lasting relief compared to corticosteroid injections. Its anti-inflammatory effects contribute to long-term joint protection, helping to control the progressive nature of RA.
However, patient selection is crucial for achieving optimal results. PRP has been observed to be more effective in early-stage RA patients, while combination therapies are recommended for advanced cases. Research on combining PRP with other biological agents suggests that treatment efficacy can be further enhanced.
In conclusion, PRP therapy is emerging as a promising approach to alleviate symptoms and protect joint health in RA patients. Its inflammation-suppressing and tissue-regenerating effects support its role as a complementary strategy in RA management. However, further clinical research is needed to establish its long-term efficacy.