Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation (low-level laser therapy) on treatment of oral mucositis (OM) induced by chemoradiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients.

Abstract

Purpose

Mucositis is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment, causing significant pain and discomfort. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Photobiomodulation in treating mucositis induced by chemoradiotherapy in cancer patients.

Methods

This randomized, single-blind clinical trial involved 36 patients with grade 3‐4 oral mucositis. The test group (n = 18) received diode portable laser therapy (810 nm wavelength, 200 mW power, 6 J/cm² energy density) for 4 days. The control group (n = 18) used a Diphenhydramine + Almgs mouthwash (50‐50% mixture, 15 ml, every 6 h for 4 days). Lesions were assessed before treatment, one week after, and again at one month.

Results

Pain scores in the laser group decreased significantly over time (P < 0.05). Patients in the laser group reported better quality of life and reduced oral discomfort compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The severity of mucositis significantly decreased in the laser group within the first week (P < 0.05), though no significant difference was observed at one month (P = 0.158).

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that Photobiomodulation is a more effective and efficient method for reducing pain, tingling, and improving quality of life in both the short and long term. It also reduces the severity of oral mucositis in the short term for patients with head and neck cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy.