Photobiomodulation

By Dr. Fouad Kerbage

Oncologist and Hematologist

Photobiomodulation is an innovative therapy — a non-invasive, painless technique with no thermal effects on the irradiated areas. It uses red or near-infrared light emitted by light sources, producing healing and restorative effects on tissues or cells damaged by anticancer treatments (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or surgery), without any adverse side effects.

Photobiomodulation treatment requires a medical prescription.

The duration of photobiomodulation sessions ranges from 5 to 20 minutes. A minimum of two sessions per week is usually recommended for a variable period of 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the clinical indication.

The effects are generally observed within hours or days after treatment.

The mechanism of action relies on identifying the physical parameters essential to its effectiveness, such as wavelength, intensity, energy dose, and exposure time.

In Oncology, this non-pharmacological therapy may potentially:

• Reduce the incidence, duration, and/or severity of acute or chronic toxicities.
• Improve patient adherence to specific cancer treatments.
• Enhance quality of life.
• Decrease overall cancer-related healthcare costs.

Clinical Indications of Photobiomodulation in Oncology

Photobiomodulation is used to manage complications induced by oncologic treatments (inflammation, ulcerations, edema, pain, fibrosis, neurological and muscular lesions).

• Radiodermatitis: skin burns induced by radiotherapy.
• Mucositis/Stomatitis: painful inflammation of the oral mucosa.
• Xerostomia: dry mouth.
• Dysphagia: difficulty swallowing (during or after radiotherapy).
• Cutaneous fibrosis: thickening or stiffening of the skin after radiotherapy.
• Trismus: involuntary contraction of the jaw muscles.
• Lymphedema: swelling of limbs following surgery or radiotherapy.
• Chemo-/radio-induced osteonecrosis: bone degradation of the jaw caused by treatments.
• Peripheral neuropathies: tingling, pain, or loss of sensation (in hands or feet).
• Arthralgia related to hormone therapy.
• Chronic post-surgical pain.