A review of current research in light-based technologies for treatment of podiatric infectious disease states

Area of Science:

• Podiatric medicine
• Photobiology
• Infectious disease treatment

Background:

• Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection targeted by new podiatric treatments.
• Phototherapy is experiencing a revival for localized bacterial and fungal infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review state-of-the-art phototherapy technologies for podiatric physicians.
• To provide detailed information on the history, mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of light-based treatments.

Main Methods:

• Review of published data on three distinct phototherapy technologies.
• Discussion of ultraviolet light therapy, near-infrared photo-inactivation therapy, and photothermal ablative antisepsis.
• Analysis of each technology's photobiology and mechanism of action.

Main Results:

• The three technologies (UV, NIR, photothermal) have different mechanisms of action.
• In vitro and in vivo trials are underway for some of these therapies.
• Data on safety and potential clinical efficacy are presented from existing literature.

Conclusions:

• Phototherapy offers potential for treating onychomycosis and other infections.
• Understanding the distinct mechanisms, safety profiles, and efficacy is crucial for clinical application.
• Further research and trials are supporting the advancement of these light-based therapies in podiatry.