A Review on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Newer Treatment (PRP)

Abstract

: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder characterized by persistent synovial inflammation, progressive cartilage and joint damage, pain, stiffness, and functional disability. Although conventional therapies, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic agents, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), effectively control disease activity, adverse effects and incomplete responses remain clinical challenges. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), an autologous blood product enriched with platelets and bioactive growth factors, has emerged as a potential regenerative and anti-inflammatory therapy. This review examines the pathophysiology of RA and evaluates the preparation, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and safety of PRP therapy. Available evidence suggests that intra-articular PRP may reduce pain and inflammatory mediators while improving joint function and potentially supporting tissue repair. However, evidence specifically addressing PRP in RA remains limited and is characterized by small sample sizes, heterogeneous preparation protocols, variable treatment regimens, and insufficient long-term randomized controlled trials. Therefore, PRP should currently be regarded as an adjunctive treatment rather than a replacement for established RA management. Further high-quality clinical studies are required to determine its efficacy, safety, optimal protocols, and long-term therapeutic role in RA.