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Photobiomodulation therapy for acute radiodermatitis.
Jolien Robijns1,2, Joy Lodewijckx1,2, Jeroen Mebis1,2,3
1Faculty of Medicine & Life Sciences, Hasselt University.
Current Opinion in Oncology
|June 7, 2019
Summary
Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) effectively manages acute radiodermatitis (ARD), a common side-effect of cancer radiotherapy. Clinical trials show PBMT reduces severe ARD, pain, and improves patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cancer therapy, particularly radiotherapy, frequently causes acute radiodermatitis (ARD).
- ARD is an inflammatory skin reaction significantly impacting patient quality of life.
- Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is emerging as a potential management strategy for cancer therapy-related complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for preventing and managing acute radiodermatitis (ARD).
- To assess the efficacy and safety of PBMT in cancer patients experiencing ARD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of clinical trials investigating PBMT for ARD.
- Analysis of data from approximately seven clinical trials on PBMT's use in ARD prevention and management.
Main Results:
- PBMT demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the incidence of severe ARD.
- The therapy was shown to decrease pain associated with ARD.
- PBMT improved the quality of life for oncologic patients.
- The technique was well-tolerated among cancer patients.
Conclusions:
- Available evidence supports a strong recommendation for using PBMT in ARD prevention and management.
- PBMT offers a promising, well-tolerated option for mitigating radiotherapy-induced skin toxicity.
