Photobiomodulation is effective in oral lichen planus: A randomized, controlled, double-blind study
Elza P Ferri1, Karen R L Cunha1, Clery S Abboud1
1Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Nove de Julho University, UNINOVE, São Paulo, Brazil.
Oral Diseases
|October 4, 2020
Summary
Photobiomodulation therapy is as effective as topical clobetasol for oral lichen planus (OLP). This safe, non-invasive treatment significantly reduces pain and improves clinical scores without adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Oral Medicine
- Biophotonics and Laser Therapy
Background:
- Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting oral mucosa.
- Current treatments, like topical corticosteroids, can have side effects.
- Novel therapeutic approaches are needed for OLP management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) with topical clobetasol 0.05% for symptomatic OLP.
- To evaluate pain reduction, clinical scores, and recurrence rates in OLP patients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 34 OLP patients.
- Group A received topical clobetasol 0.05% with sham laser treatment.
- Group B received PBM therapy (laser) with sham gel treatment.
- Evaluations included pain, clinical scores, resolution, and recurrence over 90 days post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Both PBM and clobetasol significantly reduced pain and improved clinical scores.
- No significant differences were observed in clinical resolution or recurrence rates between the groups.
- Both treatments were equally effective during treatment and follow-up periods.
Conclusions:
- Photobiomodulation administered twice weekly is a viable alternative to corticoid therapy for OLP.
- PBM offers a safe, non-invasive treatment option for OLP.
- PBM therapy demonstrated no adverse effects, highlighting its safety profile.
