A Critical Scoping Review of Extraoral Photobiomodulation for Oral Mucositis in Oncological Patients

Oral mucositis (OM) is a potentially severe side effect of oncological treatment. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive scoping review of extraoral photobiomodulation (EOPBM) in the treatment or prevention of OM in oncologic patients. Studies were categorized according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) recommendations.

A search was conducted in three databases for comparative or non-comparative studies. There were no language or publication year restrictions.

The review included nine studies, with varying levels of evidence. Three studies were categorized as OCEBM level 2, and six as level 4. While EOPBM offered advantages, such as shorter session durations and potentially more accessible light application, the review found limited evidence for its exclusive use in preventing or treating OM. It included a single randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing EOPBM with IOPBM, which found no significant differences between the groups in OM development or severity. Additionally, studies comparing EOPBM with sham sessions, placebo, or no treatment yielded mixed results.

EOPBM shows promise in preventing OM in oncological patients, with some advantages such as shorter session durations. However, the current level of evidence for exclusive EOPBM protocols remains limited.