Photobiomodulation in Patients Taking Denosumab: Case Report and Literature Review

Background: Denosumab is a human monoclonal antibody playing a central role in bone resorption. The impaired bone healing observed in patients on denosumab is linked to the drug's inhibition of osteoclast activity. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has garnered attention as a potential adjunctive therapy for managing oral complications in patients on denosumab therapy. The aim of this study is to provide a review of the literature regarding the benefits of photobiomodulation therapy in patients taking denosumab while providing a case report of a patient treated with this therapy. Materials and Methods: Key terms were used to search PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Web of Science, and at last, 25 articles were compared. Following the proposed review, a case of a patient is illustrated. Results: Based on our literature findings, there are no papers regarding the benefits of photobiomodulation therapy in patients taking denosumab specifically, but there are articles regarding photobiomodulation therapy and MRONJ osteonecrosis patients, which can be caused by denosumab. Discussion: Despite all the limitations of the data in the literature, it can be deduced that there are evident benefits of photobiomodulation therapy in patients taking denosumab. The integration of laser-assisted techniques and photobiomodulation into MRONJ management protocols represents a significant evolution in treatment strategies. Conclusions: Further studies are needed to better understand a potential association between odontoclasts (which can cause external root resorption) and neoplastic disease or medication, as well as to explore the role of photobiomodulation in the therapeutic rehabilitation process.