Effect of low level laser therapy in the reduction of oral complications in patients with cancer of the head and neck submitted to radiotherapy

A systematic review of salivary gland hypofunction and/or xerostomia induced by non-surgical cancer therapies: prevention strategies

PURPOSE

This systematic review aimed to assess the updated literature for the prevention of salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia induced by non-surgical cancer therapies.

METHODS

Electronic databases of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) that investigated interventions to prevent salivary gland hypofunction and/or xerostomia. Literature search began from the 2010 systematic review publications from the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) up to February 2024. Two independent reviewers extracted information regarding study design, study population, cancer treatment modality, interventions, outcome measures, methods, results, risk of bias (RoB version 2), and conclusions for each article.

RESULTS

A total of 51 publications addressing preventive interventions were included. Eight RCTs on tissue-sparing radiation modalities were included showing significant lower prevalence of xerostomia, with unclear effect on salivary gland hypofunction. Three RCTs on preventive acupuncture showed reduced prevalence of xerostomia but not of salivary gland hypofunction. Two RCTs on muscarinic agonist stimulation with bethanechol suggested a preventive effect on saliva flow rate and xerostomia in patients undergoing head and neck radiation or radioactive iodine therapy. Two studies on submandibular gland transfer showed higher salivary flow rates compared to pilocarpine and lower prevalence of xerostomia compared to no active intervention. There is insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of vitamin E, amifostine, photobiomodulation, and miscellaneous preventive interventions.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review continues to support the potential of tissue-sparing tecniques and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to preserve salivary gland function in patients with head and neck cancer, with limited evidence on other preventive strategies, including acupuncture and bethanecol. Preventive focus should be on optimized and new approaches developed to further reduce radiation dose to the parotid, the submandibular, and minor salivary glands. As these glands are major contributors to moistening of the oral cavity, limiting the radiation dose to the salivary glands through various modalities has demonstrated reduction in prevalence and severity of salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia. There remains no evidence on preventive approaches for checkpoint inhibitors and other biologicals due to the lack of RCTs.

Photobiomodulation CME part II: Clinical applications in dermatology

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is an emerging treatment modality in dermatology with increasing office and home-based use. PBM is the use of various light sources in the red light (620-700 nm) and near-infrared (700-1440 nm) spectrum as a form of light therapy. PBM is often administered through low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes. Studies show that PBM can be used effectively to treat conditions secondary to cancer therapies, alopecia, ulcers, herpes simplex virus, acne, skin rejuvenation, wounds, and scars. PBM offers patients many benefits compared to other treatments. It is noninvasive, cost-effective, convenient for patients, and offers a favorable safety profile. PBM can be used as an alternative or adjuvant to other treatment modalities including pharmacotherapy. It is important for dermatologists to gain a better clinical understanding of PBM for in-office administration and to counsel patients on proper application for home-use devices to best manage safety and expectations as this technology develops. PBM wavelengths can induce varied biological effects in diverse skin types, races, and ethnicities; therefore, it is also important for dermatologists to properly counsel their skin of color patients who undergo PBM treatments. Future clinical trials are necessary to produce standardized recommendations across conditions and skin types.

Might photobiomodulation therapy interfere with the frequency of severe mucositis and oral candidiasis? A retrospective analysis in patients with head and neck carcinoma

PURPOSE

Considering the tumor in the oral cavity or the oropharynx and nasopharynx region might be an aggravating factor for oral mucositis (OM) manifestation, the present study aimed to evaluate whether the location of the tumor and the use of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) might affect the frequency of oral candidiasis (OC) during radiotherapy (RT) and/or chemotherapy (CT) treatments.

METHODS

The medial records of seventy-four patients with head and neck cancer treated in a public service from 2016 to 2019 were evaluated. All these patients were submitted to RT in an accumulated dose of 48 to 70 Gy of radiation. Data about OM and OC were collected and presented according to the application of a therapeutic protocol with laser photobiomodulation (PBMT) to control oral mucositis, or not (No-PBM), and the location of tumor (head and neck or oral cavity). In the PBMT group patients, a low-power laser device composed of InGaAlP diode (maximum output power of 86.7 mW, active tip area of 0.1256 cm2, and continuous wavelength of 660 nm), was applied to the lips (three points each), right and left jugal mucosa (three points each), the limit between hard and soft palate (three points), buccal floor/sublingual gland (one point), lateral edge of the tongue (three points on each side), and back of the tongue (six points), three times weekly, for 5 weeks. The dosimetry used in each application was 2 J for 3 s, thus totaling 56 J. The correlation between clinical characteristics such as age, tumor size (T), metastatic lymph node (N), number of RT and CT sessions, candidiasis, and OM were analyzed.

RESULTS

Mucositis grades 1 and 2 were the most common among all patients, especially before the 12th radiotherapy session, regardless of the treatment with PBM (p > 0.05). Additionally, no difference in the grade of OM and OC was significantly observed when comparing the two laser therapy groups. OC was more frequent after the 12th radiotherapy session in all groups. Nonetheless, OM and OC had a different correlation regarding to tumor location (head and neck and oral cavity) being PBMT a positive therapy to delay OM. It was observed a positive and statistically significant correlation between tumors at oral cavity and OM, regardless PBMT (R = 0.84, p < 0.05 to PBMT and R = 0.13, p < 0.05 to No-PBM). Otherwise, OC was positively correlated to local metastasis in patients with oral tumors undergoing PBMT (R = 0.84, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Patients with oral cavity tumor presented more OM, especially high grades, then patients with tumors in other regions of the head and neck, which seems to be related to the irradiation parameters of radiotherapy and/or with the limitation of conduction of PBMT in tumor areas. OM and OC were not changed by PBMT, although it helped to reduce the incidence of severe cases of OM.

The supportive use of photobiomodulation on salivary glands: a narrative review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy is one of the main strategies used in the treatment of cancer patients and it can cause early or late xerostomia and/or hyposalivation. Therapeutic management of xerostomia includes oral hygiene, sialogenic agents among others.

METHODS

This study reviews the use of extra-oral salivary glands photobiomodulation in treating xerostomia and/or hyposalivation after radiotherapy and performs a meta-analysis of this data.

RESULTS

After a broad search of the literature, eight clinical studies were selected.

DISCUSSION

In a safe way, the studies found that extra-oral stimulation of the salivary glands has benefits in the hyposalivation and changes in salivary flow resulting from lesions by radiotherapy. A meta-analysis found significant values in pain comparing the pre- and post-treatment moments (MD - 3.02, I2 95%, IC - 5.56; - 0.48) and for stimulated salivary flow at 30 days after the end of radiotherapy (MD 2.90, I2 95%, IC 1.96; 3.84).

CONCLUSION

The most promising parameters comprise wavelengths between 630 and 830 nm, radiant exposure from 2 to 10 J/cm2, two-to-three times a week, before the radiotherapy damage, and homogeneously in the glands. Therefore, Light-Emitting Diode (LED) stimulation of larger areas than the punctual stimulation of small millimeters of the Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) appears to be promising.

Evaluation of the Effect of Photobiomodulation on Radiation-Induced Xerostomia in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction: Radiotherapy-induced xerostomia is an important side effect of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is one of the new emerging methods for preventing or reducing this problem. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of PBM on radiation-induced xerostomia in HNC patients. Methods: Thirty-seven patients with HNC who were referred for radiotherapy to Mashhad cancer center. In the case group, an infrared diode laser was used in contact mode on 16 points (covering minor and major salivary glands). The device emitted a wavelength of 810 nm and operated at the power of 200 mW and continuous wave mode. Each area was irradiated for 4 seconds in contact mode with gentle pressure, and the laser energy was 0.8 J with an energy density of 2.85 J/cm2 at the surface of the probe (spot size, 0.28 cm2 ). The total dose was 45.6 J/cm2. The power density was 714.2 w/cm2. In the control group, the sham laser device was used. Subjective xerostomia was evaluated through the LENT SOMA scale (LSS). Stimulated and unstimulated saliva was also assessed. Data were analyzed with SPSS ver22 statistical software. Results: The study included 26 men and 11 women with a mean age of 55.6±15.3 years. In the sixth week, the case group produced more stimulated saliva than the control group (P=0.006). They also had less subjective xerostomia than the control group in weeks four to six. Conclusion: In the present study, PBM had a preventive effect on stimulated saliva and subjective xerostomia and can be recommended as an adjunctive treatment. Further studies with a higher sample size and the use of a low-level laser in more sessions are needed for definitive comment.

[Photobiomodulation in the prevention and the management of side effects of cancer treatments: Bases, results and perspectives]

BACKGROUND

Assess the current and potential indications of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy and their level of evidence in the prevention or treatment of side effects related to oncology treatments (radiation therapy, and to a minimal extent favored and hematopoietic stem cell transplants). And report on the recommended modalities (parameters and doses) of PBM therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Embase, Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, EBSCO, Scopus, and LILACS databases were systematically reviewed to include and analyze publications of clinical studies that evaluated PBM in the prevention or management side effects related to cancer treatments. The keywords used were "photobiomodulation"; "low level laser therapy"; "acute oral mucositis"; "acute dysphagia"; "acute radiation dermatitis"; "lymphedema"; "xerostomia"; "dysgeusia"; "hyposalivation"; "lockjaw"; "bone necrosis"; "osteoradionecrosis"; "radiation induced fibrosis"; "voice and speech alterations"; "palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia"; "graft versus host disease"; "peripheral neuropathy"; "chemotherapy induced alopecia". Prospective studies were included, while retrospective cohorts and non-original articles were excluded from the analysis.

RESULTS

PBM in the red or infrared spectrum has been shown to be effective in randomized controlled trials in the prevention and management of certain complications related to radiotherapy, in particular acute mucositis, epitheliitis and upper limb lymphedema. The level of evidence associated with PBM was heterogeneous, but overall remained moderate. The main limitations were the diversity and the lack of precision of the treatment protocols which could compromise the efficiency and the reproducibility of the results of the PBM. For other effects related to chemo/radiation therapy (dysgeusia, osteonecrosis, peripheral neuropathy, alopecia, palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia) and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (graft versus host disease), treatment with PBM suffers from a lack of studies or limited studies at the origin of a weakened level of proof. However, based on these results, it was possible to establish safe practice parameters and doses of PBM.

CONCLUSION

Published data suggest that PBM could therefore be considered as supportive care in its own right for patients treated with radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapies, whether in clinical practice or clinical trials. therapies. However, until solid data have been published on its long-term safety, the use of PBM should be considered with caution and within the recommended parameters and doses, particularly when practiced in areas of known or possible tumours. In this case, the patient should be informed of the theoretical benefits and risks of PBM in order to obtain informed consent before treatment.

Assessment of Integrative Therapeutic Methods for Improving the Quality of Life and Functioning in Cancer Patients-A Systematic Review

Background: Cancer rehabilitation represents a series of measures adopted for the recovery of psychological, emotional, social, and financial functioning in the case of cancer patients. The purpose of this study is to identify the main elements of therapeutic management in the field of medical rehabilitation, as well as integrative, complementary medicine and holistic approaches that can be performed on the oncological patient. Methods: This systematic literature review follows the methodology outlined in the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis" ("PRISMA") statement, which is an internationally recognized and widely accepted standard. Results: Active rehabilitative therapies offer therapeutic options for improving the functioning and quality of life of oncological patients; these therapies comprehensively address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease. This review also includes the latest novelties and nanotechnologies applied in oncological rehabilitation, for example, drugs (or supplements) inspired by nature. Conclusions: Physical and rehabilitation medicine, mostly using stimulating therapeutic methods, was recently added to the list of contraindications in the management of oncological patients, both as an approach to the pathological concept itself and as an approach to the main clinical consequences and functional aspects of oncological therapies. Integrative, complementary medicine presents an important therapeutic resource in the case of oncological patients. Advanced studies are needed in the future to further ascertain the role of these therapies.

Management of oral mucositis: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Oral mucositis is one of the most common complications following chemotherapy and/or head and neck radiotherapy. Various treatments for oral mucositis have been proposed. However, there has still been no review of the most frequent and most effective type of therapy to treat oral mucositis. This systematic review aims to determine the most frequent and effective types of therapy to treat and reduce the severity of oral mucositis.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The literature search was carried out using PRISMA guidelines. Publications included from 2010 to June 2021 with a clinical trial, prospective, and retrospective observational research design. The following databases were used: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Wiley Online Library. The search was for limited articles published in English, which were screened and analyzed by three authors. The risk of bias of each study was also assessed by three authors simultaneously, using different types of instruments depending on its study design.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Forty-seven of 1274 journals were included. From 3577 subjects, oral mucositis was more common in males than females (2.12: 1), with a mean age of 56.39 (18-90 years). The most commonly used types of therapy are low-level laser therapy (396 subjects) and lysozyme-based compounds (314 subjects). Meanwhile, the most effective type of therapy is low-level laser therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-level laser therapy is the most commonly used oral mucositis therapy and is also the most effective in reducing the degree of oral mucositis and associated pain.

Effects of a mucoadhesive phytomedicine (Curcuma longa L. and Bidens pilosa L.) on radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis and quality of life of patients undergoing head and neck cancer treatment: randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

To assess the effect of a mucoadhesive herbal medicine containing curcuminoids and a glycerinated extract of Bidens pilosa L. (FITOPROT) in association with photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy and a Preventive Oral Care Program (POCP) compared to PBM and POCP in the treatment of radiotherapy (RT)-induced oral mucositis (ROM) and in the quality of life of these patients.

METHODS

A double-blind clinical trial was performed with head and neck cancer patients undergoing RT or chemoradiotherapy. Participants were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (n=27): PBM and POCP; and Group 2 (n=25): PBM, POCP and FITOPROT. The PBM protocol was daily irradiation, 660 nm, 25mW, 0.25 J/point from the first until the last day of RT. The FITOPROT was used as mouthwash twice a day. ROM was evaluated based on the scales of the World Health Organization and National Cancer Institute. The quality of life was evaluated using the University of Washington Questionnaire, OHIP-14 and Patient-Reported Oral Mucositis Symptom Scale. The MMAS-8 questionnaire was used to evaluated the adherence to POCP and FITOPROT. Data were collected at baseline, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 30th RT sessions.

RESULTS

No statistical differences were found between the groups for the ROM evaluation. Both groups experienced worsening of the quality of life during the RT. No statistically significant differences between groups were observed for any of the instruments evaluated.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that PBM associated with FITOPROT and POCP control the severity of ROM and stabilize the QoL of patients with head and neck cancer.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC-RBR-9vddmr; UTN code: U1111-1193-2066), registered in August 8th, 2017.

Twenty-year analysis of photobiomodulation clinical studies for oral mucositis: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to review the first 20 years of photobiomodulation (PBM) clinical studies for oral mucositis (OM) mitigation.

STUDY DESIGN

A scoping review screened controlled clinical studies. The PBM devices, protocols, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy-five studies met the inclusion criteria. The first study dated from 1992, and the term "PBM" was first published in 2017. Public services, placebo-controlled randomized trials, and patients with head and neck chemoradiation were predominant among included studies. Prophylactic red intraoral laser protocols were mostly used. Comparing the outcomes of all protocols was unfeasible due to missing treatment parameters and nonhomogeneous measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

The main barrier to optimizing clinical protocols of PBM for OM was the lack of standardization in clinical studies. Although PBM use is now globally present in oncology settings and generally marked by good outcomes reported, additional randomized clinical trials with well-described methods are necessary.

Photobiomodulation for the management of xerostomia and oral mucositis in patients with cancer: a randomized clinical trial

To evaluate the applicability of photobiomodulation therapy (PBM-T) in the management of xerostomia and OM. Fifty-three patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were randomized into two groups: Sham and PBM-T. The Sham group received artificial saliva and laser simulation, while the PBM-T group received artificial saliva and PBM-T. Xerostomia-related quality of life (QoL), the presence or absence of OM lesions, the decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) index, and periodontal charts were evaluated. The results of the QoL questionnaire, DMFT index, and periodontal chart were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test, while OM findings were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. QoL scores significantly increased in the Sham group (p < 0.0001), denoting more severe xerostomia symptoms (p = 0.0074), and decreased in the PBM-T group, indicating no or very mild xerostomia. Higher grades of OM were found in the Sham group than the PBM-T group (p = 0.0001). There was no significant difference in DMFT index or periodontal charts between the groups (p > 0.05). PBM-T improved QoL in patients with head and neck cancer treated with radiotherapy, whether as radiation alone or as an adjunct to chemotherapy and surgery.

Quality Assessment of PBM Protocols for Oral Complications in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Part 1

Background

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are frequently employed in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients causing significant side effects that impair life quality and prognosis. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has become a growing approach to managing such oral complications. Despite its proven efficacy and absence of contraindications, there is still a lack of universally accepted disease-specific PBM protocols.

Objective

A narrative review was conducted to identify the current proposals relating to the use of PBM to treat complications of oncological treatments in HNC patients.

Methods

An electronic search in PubMed and Scopus databases was performed with the following keywords: (“photobiomodulation” OR “PBM” OR “laser therapy” OR “LLLT” OR “laser”) AND (“head and neck cancer” OR “oral cancer”) AND (“mucositis” OR “oral mucositis” OR “dysgeusia” OR “oedema” OR “xerostomia” OR “dermatitis” OR “trismus”) until October 2021.

Results

A total of 35 papers were included in the narrative review. Oral mucositis was the most studied complication, and advisable protocols are conceivable. Although there is a growing interest in PBM to manage of xerostomia, radiodermatitis, pain, and trismus, literature is still scarce to propose a universally feasible protocol.

Conclusions

PBM therapy could significantly prevent or reduce the severity of many side effects related to cancer therapies. More research is needed to obtain recommendations over the preferable parameters.

Efficacy of Photobiomodulation in Reducing Symptomatology and Improving the Quality of Life in Patients with Xerostomia and Hyposalivation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) treatment in patients with xerostomia and hyposalivation and assess their quality of life over a one year of follow-up. Material and methods: A single-blind randomized controlled trial. A total of 60 patients with xerostomia were included (30 PBM cases and 30 placebo controls). Photobiomodulation was performed with a diode laser (810 nm, 6 J/cm2), while the controls underwent simulated treatment. One weekly session was carried out for a total of 6 weeks (total six sessions). The study parameters were recorded at baseline, after three and six weeks, and at one year post-treatment. Xerostomia was assessed using a salivary flow visual analog scale (VAS) and the Xerostomia Inventory (XI). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale, Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) were also administered. Results: The patients subjected to PBM therapy showed a significant improvement of xerostomia based on the drainage test, and of oral quality of life (p < 0.001). The depression score of the HAD (HAD-D) and the ESS showed improvement, though without reaching statistical significance (p > 0.05). The placebo group showed significant changes in the xerostomia VAS score at 6 weeks (p = 0.009), with no variations in any of the other studied parameters (p > 0.05). The beneficial effects of the diode laser in the PBM group persisted at one year post-treatment. Conclusions: Photobiomodulation with the diode laser is effective in patients with xerostomia and hyposalivation, and thus should be taken into account as a treatment option.

Update of photobiomodulation in oral mucositis: a systematic review

Introduction: Oral mucositis (OM) is a common side effect of radiotherapy (RT) or radio-chemotherapy (RT/CT) for head and neck cancers. It causes lesions leading to impairment of the quality of life, dysphagia, pain, and in up to 20% of cases, a dosimetry concession, decreasing local tumor control, thereby impacting the survival rate. Positive results of photobiomodulation (PBM) to treat it have been reported in the literature. PBM has multiple parameters (type of laser, emission mode, number of sessions to be performed, wavelength, power, energy, fluence, exposure time, number of points) making it difficult to implement in clinical practice. Materials and methods: A literature search strategy was applied in Medline by selecting articles published between 2010 and 2020 to answer the following research question: “In patients treated with RT or RT/CT, what is the place of PBM in the management of OM?”, in accordance with PICO (patient, intervention, comparison and outcomes) criteria. The inclusion criteria were all original articles (clinical cases and clinical studies) which answered the research question. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews of the literature and journals, animal or in vitro studies, studies published in a language other than French or English, and full-text articles not accessible via inter-university credits were excluded. Results: Seventeen articles were included, representing 1576 patients. The PBM was intraoral in 16 papers and combined intra- and extra-oral emission in 1 paper. InGaAlP diode laser and HeNe laser significantly reduced OM compared with placebo in 62.5% and 75% of the studies, respectively. Pain reduction was poorly or not documented and when it was, it did not correlate with the reduction of analgesics. Temporary or permanent interruption of radiotherapy was also poorly documented. Discussion: The MASCC/ISOO (2019) report is an important step forward to establish a reproducible protocol for PBM, which as our results show, is heterogeneous in use. Our results showed that the studies started PBM on the first day of RT, using a wavelength of 660 nm for diode laser and 632.8 nm for HeNe laser. However, there is no scientific evidence vis-à-vis the values for power, energy, fluence, exposure time, or number of points. Although PBM appears to be effective in reducing OM scores, its effectiveness on improving patient quality of life, pain, painkiller consumption, compliance with treatment and the occurrence of complications remains to be defined. The relationship between PBM and survival rate was not an objective of this work. We found that of the 17 articles, 15 stated that they did not illuminate the tumor site during PBM sessions. Conclusion: The main objective of this work was to determine the place of PBM in the treatment of OM. Overall, the results on OM scores were favorable in almost ¾ of the studies. Despite its efficacy, the questions of the adjustment of the parameters of PBM, the harmonization on OM scale and its safety on carcinologic recurrence remain to be studied. In view of the lack of comparability of studies and the lack of reported data, studies that harmonize endpoints and follow-up criteria are needed to establish a standard protocol.

New photobiomodulation device for prevention and cure of radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis and dermatitis: results of the prospective Safe PBM study

Purpose

The study aims to assess the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of CareMin650, a new photobiomodulation device, in patients treated by radiotherapy (RT) and to collect preliminary data on efficacy for prevention and treatment of oral mucositis (OM) and radiation dermatitis (RD).

Methods

Safe PBM is a French, multicentric, prospective, non-comparative study which include patients with head and neck cancer (H&NC, cohort A) or breast cancer (BC, cohort B) treated in prophylactic (cohorts A1 and B1) or curative setting (cohort A2 and B2). Prophylactic treatment was administered from D1 to end of RT, at a dose of 3 J/cm². Curative treatment started when a grade 1 to grade 3 lesion had occurred and was pursued until end of RT. Primary endpoint was incidence of device-related adverse events (AEs). OM and RD lesions were graded according to CTCAE V3.

Results

Overall, 72 patients were included (22, 9, 23, and 18 in cohorts A1, A2, B1, and B2, respectively). No device-related AE was reported after 1312 CareMin650 sessions. In cohorts A1 and B1, median time to first OM or RD lesion was 20 days. One BC patient developed G3 RD after completion of RT and discontinuation of CareMin650. Four H&NC patients developed G3 OM. In cohorts A2 and B2, lesions improved or stabilized in 71% of patients. Rates of satisfaction were high among patients and users.

Conclusion

CareMin650 is feasible, safe, and well tolerated for preventive or curative treatment of OM and RD in cancer patients treated with RT. Preliminary efficacy results are promising.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-021-06574-2.

Effects of low-level light therapy on xerostomia related to hyposalivation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

Hyposalivation is a condition represented by a reduced salivary flow and may include symptoms such as mouth dryness (xerostomia), loss of taste, pain, dysphagia, and dysphonia, all of which greatly affect an individual's quality of life.The aim of the present study was to systematically review the effects of low-level light therapy irradiation (photobiomodulation) on salivary gland function in patients with hyposalivation.The main question of the systematic review was: "Does low-level light irradiation therapy of the salivary glands affect salivary flow rate or indicators of salivary function (ion and protein concentrations) in patients with xerostomia or hyposalivation?" The question was based on the PICO (participant, intervention, control, outcome) principle and followed the PRISMA guidelines. Databases were explored and papers published between the years 1997 and 2020 were reviewed for the following Mesh-term keywords and their corresponding entry terms in different combinations: "Low-level light therapy," "Xerostomia," "Saliva," "Salivary glands," "Salivation."The initial sample consisted of 220 articles. Of those, 47 articles were used for full-text analysis and 18 were used for a systematic review, 14 were used in meta-analysis. According to their individual quality, most articles were classified as high quality of evidence according to the GRADE score. Meta-analysis of the evidence observed increase of unstimulated salivary flow 0.51 SMD compared to placebo (95% CI: 0.16-0.86), I² = 50%, p = 0.005.The findings of our review revealed evidence of a beneficial effect of photobiomodulation therapy on salivary gland function. The therapy alleviates xerostomia and hyposalivation. However, these effects are reported short term only and did not induce lasting effects of photobiomodulation therapy on patients' quality of life.

Salivary Gland Hypofunction and/or Xerostomia Induced by Nonsurgical Cancer Therapies: ISOO/MASCC/ASCO Guideline

PURPOSE

To provide evidence-based recommendations for prevention and management of salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia induced by nonsurgical cancer therapies.

METHODS

Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) and ASCO convened a multidisciplinary Expert Panel to evaluate the evidence and formulate recommendations. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials published between January 2009 and June 2020. The guideline also incorporated two previous systematic reviews conducted by MASCC/ISOO, which included studies published from 1990 through 2008.

RESULTS

A total of 58 publications were identified: 46 addressed preventive interventions and 12 addressed therapeutic interventions. A majority of the evidence focused on the setting of radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. For the prevention of salivary gland hypofunction and/or xerostomia in patients with head and neck cancer, there is high-quality evidence for tissue-sparing radiation modalities. Evidence is weaker or insufficient for other interventions. For the management of salivary gland hypofunction and/or xerostomia, intermediate-quality evidence supports the use of topical mucosal lubricants, saliva substitutes, and agents that stimulate the salivary reflex.

RECOMMENDATIONS

For patients who receive radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, tissue-sparing radiation modalities should be used when possible to reduce the risk of salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia. Other risk-reducing interventions that may be offered during radiation therapy for head and neck cancer include bethanechol and acupuncture. For patients who develop salivary gland hypofunction and/or xerostomia, interventions include topical mucosal lubricants, saliva substitutes, and sugar-free lozenges or chewing gum. For patients with head and neck cancer, oral pilocarpine and oral cevimeline, acupuncture, or transcutaneous electrostimulation may be offered after radiation therapy.Additional information can be found at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines.

[State of art of photobiomodulation in the management of radiotherapy adverse events: Indications and level of evidence]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the current and potential indications of photobiomodulation (PBM) and their level of evidence in the prevention or management of radiation therapy-related side effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Embase, Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, EBSCO, Scopus, and LILACS databases were systematically reviewed to include and analyze publications of clinical studies that have assessed PBM in the prevention or management of radiotherapy-related side effects. The keywords used were "photobiomodulation"; "low level laser therapy"; "acute oral mucositis"; "acute dysphagia"; "acute radiation dermatitis"; "lymphedema"; "xerostomia"; "hyposalivation"; "trismus"; "bone necrosis"; "osteoradionecrosis"; and "radiation induced fibrosis". Prospective studies were included, whereas retrospective cohorts and non-original articles were excluded from the analysis.

RESULTS

PBM in the red or infrared spectrum has demonstrated efficacy in randomized controlled trials in the prevention and management of radiotherapy-related side effects, especially acute oral mucositis, acute radiation dermatitis, and upper extremity lymphedema. The level of evidence associated with PBM was heterogeneous, but overall was still moderate. The main shortcomings were the diversity and lack of detail in treatment protocols, which could have compromised efficiency and reproducibility of PBM results.

CONCLUSION

The published data suggest that PBM may be considered as a full-fledged supportive care for patients treated with radiotherapy, or at least in the setting of a therapeutic clinical trial. However, until strong evidence has been published on its long-term safety, the use of PBM should be considered with caution, specifically when applied near areas with proven or potential tumors. The patient should be informed of the theoretical benefits and risks of PBM in order to obtain his informed consent before treatment.

The effect of comprehensive oral care program on oral health and quality of life in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer: A quasi-experimental case-control study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the comprehensive oral care program on oral health status and symptoms in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients undergoing radiotherapy.

METHODS

This was a quasi-experimental study using a non-equivalent control group in non-synchronized design. All participants including control and experimental group were asked for the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire H&N35 (EORTC QLQ-H&N35) and given an oral health education 4 times at baseline, immediate postradiotherapy, 3 months after radiotherapy, and 6 months after radiotherapy. In each visit except for final, the experimental group was given fluoride varnish application and fluoride mouth rinsing solution for daily use. Oral health examination for dental caries, plaque score (PS), bleeding on probing (BOP), and salivary flow rate was performed in baseline and 6 months after radiotherapy. Statistical analyses were done by paired t-tests and mixed ANCOVA repeated-measures analysis.

RESULTS

From November 1, 2013 to October 31, 2015, a total 61 patients undergoing radiotherapy for HNC cancer were enrolled (30 in control and 31 in experimental groups). Decrease in salivary flow rate was comparable between 2 groups. Dental caries increased in control group (P = .006); PS and BOP were decreased in experimental group (P < .001 and .004, respectively). Experimental group showed lower swallowing, speech problems, and less sexuality scores in EORTC QLQ-H&N35 than control group.

CONCLUSION

We found improvement in oral health and the quality of life in HNC patients with comprehensive oral care intervention by dental professionals. Communicating and cooperating between the healthcare and dental professionals is needed to raise the quality of health care services for HNC patients receiving radiotherapy.

Effects of photobiomodulation in salivary glands of chronic kidney disease patients on hemodialysis

This randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluates the impact of photobiomodulation (PBMT) on the salivary flow and biochemistry of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis. Forty-four patients on hemodialysis self-responded two questionnaires for oral health and salivary gland function perception. The subjects were evaluated for function of salivary glands and randomly allocated to two groups: PBMT group (three irradiations at 808 nm, 100 mW, 142 J/cm², and 4 J per site); and placebo group. Patients were submitted to non-stimulated and stimulated sialometry and after the treatment at baseline and 14 days. Salivary volume and biochemical of the saliva were analyzed. At baseline, most subjects had self-perception of poor oral health (52.6%) and salivary dysfunction (63.1%). Clinical exam revealed that 47.3% of subjects presented dry mucosa. PBMT promoted increase of the non-stimulated (p = 0.027) and stimulated saliva (p = 0.014) and decrease of urea levels in both non-stimulated (p = 0.0001) and stimulated saliva (p = 0.0001). No alteration was detected in total proteins and calcium analysis. Patients with kidney disease can present alteration in flow, concentrations, and composition of saliva, affecting oral health, but our findings suggest that PBMT is effective to improve hyposalivation and urea levels in saliva of patients with CKD.

Adherence of head and neck cancer patients to laser photobiomodulation in a public health service: Pilot study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the adherence of patients with head and neck cancer who underwent radiotherapy or radio-chemotherapy combined to the preventive laser photobiomodulation protocol in a public health service.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study, whose population sample included patients with malignant head and neck neoplasms. Thirty head and neck cancer patients undergoing cancer treatment, were examined and interviewed through a record of signs and symptoms of oral mucositis (OM) and adherence to the preventive laser photobiomodulation protocol, that began in the first session of radiotherapy, and included the laser application three times a week during the 3-week period. The collected data were documented, and the descriptive and inferential statistics were performed with a significance level of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

It was observed that 66.6% of patients developed OM. There was a predominance of degrees I and II, with 36.8% and 31.6%, respectively. A total of fifteen patients (50%) missed one or more laser photobiomodulation sessions. A positive association was found between patients who missed at least two laser photobiomodulation sessions with the development of OM degrees III (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There was moderate adherence of patients with head and neck cancer to the laser photobiomodulation protocol and the development of more severe degrees of OM was related to individuals that didn't attend scheduled sessions.

Does laser photobiomodulation prevent hyposalivation in patients undergoing head and neck radiotherapy? A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Head and neck radiotherapy can cause hypofunction of the salivary glands. Many studies report that laser photobiomodulation (PBM) is able to minimize radiation-induced hyposalivation, yet there is no consensus about its effects.

OBJECTIVE

To carry out a meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials that used PBM to prevent radiation-induced hyposalivation.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed through Embase, Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, EBSCO, Scopus, LILACS and Web of Science databases. The strategy included comparisons of the effect of PBM with placebo/clinical follow-up on unstimulated and/or stimulated salivary flow in patients undergoing head and neck radiotherapy.

RESULTS

Six clinical trials were included, five of which were used for meta-analysis. Evidence was observed between the use of PBM and increased unstimulated salivary flow (MD 0.20 mL/min, 95 % Cl 0.10-0.30, I² = 96 %, p < 0.00001) and in stimulated salivary flow (MD 0.27 mL/min, 95 % CI 0.08-0.46, I² = 95 %, p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION

PBM appears to minimize radiation-induced hyposalivation.

The Effect of Photobiomodulation on Nitrite and Inflammatory Activity in Radiotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and nitrite salivary levels in patients with head and neck cancer receiving photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) associated with a Preventive Oral Care Program (POCP), for prevention and control of oral mucositis (OM) during radiotherapy (RT) associated or not with chemotherapy protocol.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this randomized double-blinded clinical trial, 48 patients were randomly assigned to two groups: PBMT (n = 25) and Control (n = 23). In the PBMT group, patients were submitted to PBMT associated with the POCP. In the Control group, patients were submitted only to the POCP. Saliva samples were collected in the 1st (baseline), 7th, 14th, 21st, and 30th sessions of RT, and the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-1β, and tumoral necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured using the cytometric bead array. Nitrite levels were measured by colorimetric method. OM was assessed using the World Health Organization and the National Cancer Institute scales.

RESULTS

Patients in the PBMT group presented less severe OM. PBMT tended to stabilize nitrite concentration levels during the RT regimen. The IL-1β concentration was associated with higher OM scores. PBMT promoted an increase in IL-12p70, TNF-α, and IL-10 concentration.

CONCLUSION

PBMT was effective in the prevention and control of severe OM, and its mechanism of action may be related to a better balance of inflammatory response that may favor injury control. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Photobiomodulation and Oral Mucositis: A Systematic Review

Oral mucositis (OM) is a debilitating complication of chemotherapy, and head and neck radiotherapy. In an effort to offer the best possible advice within the limitations of published research, a systematic review with an extended discussion and commentary on dosimetry and dose delivery is presented. Using keywords as listed, Pubmed, Google Scholar and Cochrane databases were searched during a period extending from 1995 to 2019. A total of 782 abstracts were identified. A total of 50 papers were analysed, and of these, 29 satisfied criteria required for systematic review in accordance with an optimized PRISMA statement. Clinical outcome as reported was subject to analysis with respect to time of intervention, incidence and severity of oral mucositis, and pain amelioration, and a comprehensive combined univariate and multivariate statistical analysis of the methods employed was performed. Recommendations are made with respect to the timing of the intervention. Moreover, there is an extended discussion available on the treatment care rationale of photobiomodulation (PBM), and its adjunctive association with OM. In conclusion, early prophylactic application offers clear advantages in clinical management. The many studies and associated variables and covariables assessed here revealed a choice of delivery techniques, associated wavelengths and many further indices to consider with regard to the accomplishment of optical parameters. It is therefore our recommendation that clinicians use PBM as a therapy with a full and proper understanding and training in order to optimise the clinical effects achievable.

Cost-effectiveness randomized clinical trial on the effect of photobiomodulation therapy for prevention of radiotherapy-induced severe oral mucositis in a Brazilian cancer hospital setting

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in association with a Preventive Oral Care Program (POCP) compared with POCP alone in the treatment of radiotherapy (RT)-induced oral mucositis (OM).

METHODS

The cost-effectiveness was evaluated from the health provider perspective and conducted alongside a randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Participants were randomly assigned to either PBMT (n = 25) or control (n = 23) group. The PBMT group participants received PBMT associated with POCP. In the control group, patients were submitted to POCP alone. Costs were identified, quantified, and valued through observation and consultation of the hospital's financial sector database and estimated in Brazilian real and converted to international dollars using the purchasing power parity exchange rate. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was estimated by considering the prevention of severe OM, interruption of RT, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) scores, measured by the OHIP-14 and patient-reported OM symptoms scale (PROMS).

RESULTS

The incremental cost of PBMT was $857.35, and the cost per session was $25.69. The ICER was $ 2867.39 to avoid one case of severe OM and $ 2756.75 to prevent one interruption in RT due to OM. ICER to reduce 1 point in OHIP-14 and PROMS scores were $170.79 and $31.75, respectively.

CONCLUSION

PBMT is more cost-effective than POCP alone in preventing severe OM, worsening of the OHRQoL, and RT interruptions. PBMT is a promising therapy, especially to avoid interruptions in oncological treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ReBEC-RBR-5h4y4n.

Does low-level laser therapy affect the survival of patients with head and neck cancer?

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is used in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) for treatment-related mucositis. There is conflicting evidence as to whether LLLT leads to the proliferation of tumor cells and whether it interferes with the tumoricidal effect of radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, if the tumor lies within the LLLT field. Using fuzzy matching, 126 HNC patients who had received LLLT including the tumor region and 126 matching HNC patients without LLLT (controls) treated at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, were identified. The overall survival was compared using the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Fuzzy matching yielded 2 patient samples well comparable in terms of risk of death. The survival did not significantly differ between patients with and without LLLT (p = 0.18). An increased risk of death in HNC patients who received LLLT covering the tumor region was not observed in our study.

Evaluation of preventive laser photobiomodulation in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiochemotherapy: Laser in patients with head and neck cancer

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of laser photobiomodulation in the prevention of oral mucositis (OM), salivary hypofunction and referred pain in patients with head and neck cancer.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This randomized clinical study divided patients into two groups: the laser group (LG, n = 30) and the control group (CG, n = 24). The LG (InGaAlP, 660 nm, 86.7 mW, 2 J/cm² ) participated in the preventive protocol, while the CG underwent a simulated procedure without light emission. The degree of OM, salivary flow, and referred pain were evaluated at five different periods of radiotherapy. Both groups showed a significant increase in the degree of OM (P < .01). Regarding OM, salivary flow, and oral pain, there were no significant differences between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The laser photobiomodulation protocol used in this study was not effective in preventing radiochemotherapy-induced OM, salivary hypofunction, and referred pain in patients with head and neck cancer. Notably, although the development of OM did not differ significantly according to the use of laser therapy, the severity of oral mucositis was reduced in patients who underwent laser therapy compared to that in patients who did not.

Low-level laser therapy in the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether prophylactic and therapeutic low-level laser therapy (LLLT), compared with placebo or no therapy, reduced the risk of severe oral mucositis (OM) in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

STUDY DESIGN

We searched for articles published on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials, until December 2018. RCTs were filtered on the basis of eligibility criteria, and data were analyzed by using R software 3.5.2.

RESULTS

Overall, 30 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Prophylactic LLLT reduced the overall risk of severe OM (relative risk [RR] = 0.40; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.28-0.57; P < .01). Therapeutic LLLT substantially reduced the duration of severe OM (P < .01). LLLT also reduced the overall mean grade of OM, overall incidence of severe pain, mean score of pain, and incidence of severe OM, at the most anticipated time.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic and therapeutic LLLT can reduce the risk of severe OM in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Effect of photobiomodulation on the severity of oral mucositis and molecular changes in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy: a study protocol for a cost-effectiveness randomized clinical trial

Background

Oral mucositis (OM) is the most frequent and debilitating acute side effect associated with head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. When present, severe OM negatively impacts the quality of life of patients undergoing HNC treatment. Photobiomodulation is a well-consolidated and effective therapy for the treatment and prevention of severe OM, and is associated with a cost reduction of the cancer treatment. Although an increase in the quality of life and a reduction in the severity of OM are well described, there is no study on cost-effectiveness for this approach considering the quality of life as a primary outcome. In addition, little is known about the photobiomodulation effects on salivary inflammatory mediators. Thus, this study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of the photobiomodulation therapy for the prevention and control of severe OM and its influence on the salivary inflammatory mediators.

Methods/design

This randomized, double-blind clinical trial will include 50 HNC patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. The participants will be randomized into two groups: intervention group (photobiomodulation) and control group (preventive oral care protocol). OM (clinical assessment), saliva (assessment of collected samples) and quality of life (Oral Health Impact Profile-14 and Patient-Reported Oral Mucositis Symptoms questionnaires) will be assessed at the 1st, 7th, 14th, 21st and 30th radiotherapy sessions. Oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine levels will be measured in the saliva samples of all participants. The costs are identified, measured and evaluated considering the radiotherapy time interval. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio will be estimated. The study will be conducted according to the Brazilian public health system perspective.

Discussion

Photobiomodulation is an effective therapy that reduces the cost associated with OM treatment. However, little is known about its cost-effectiveness, mainly when quality of life is the effectiveness measure. Additionally, this therapy is not supported by the Brazilian public health system. Therefore, this study widens the knowledge about the safety of and strengthens evidence for the use of photobiomodulation therapy, providing information for public policy-makers and also for dental care professionals. This study is strongly encouraged due to its clinical relevance and the possibility of incorporating new technology into public health systems.

Trial registration

Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials—ReBEC, RBR-5h4y4n. Registered on 13 June 2017.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-019-3196-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Use of electroanalgesia and laser therapies as alternatives to opioids for acute and chronic pain management

The use of opioid analgesics for postoperative pain management has contributed to the global opioid epidemic. It was recently reported that prescription opioid analgesic use often continued after major joint replacement surgery even though patients were no longer experiencing joint pain. The use of epidural local analgesia for perioperative pain management was not found to be protective against persistent opioid use in a large cohort of opioid-naïve patients undergoing abdominal surgery. In a retrospective study involving over 390,000 outpatients more than 66 years of age who underwent minor ambulatory surgery procedures, patients receiving a prescription opioid analgesic within 7 days of discharge were 44% more likely to continue using opioids 1 year after surgery. In a review of 11 million patients undergoing elective surgery from 2002 to 2011, both opioid overdoses and opioid dependence were found to be increasing over time. Opioid-dependent surgical patients were more likely to experience postoperative pulmonary complications, require longer hospital stays, and increase costs to the health-care system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasized the importance of finding alternatives to opioid medication for treating pain. In the new clinical practice guidelines for back pain, the authors endorsed the use of non-pharmacologic therapies. However, one of the more widely used non-pharmacologic treatments for chronic pain (namely radiofrequency ablation therapy) was recently reported to have no clinical benefit. Therefore, this clinical commentary will review evidence in the peer-reviewed literature supporting the use of electroanalgesia and laser therapies for treating acute pain, cervical (neck) pain, low back pain, persistent post-surgical pain after spine surgery (“failed back syndrome”), major joint replacements, and abdominal surgery as well as other common chronic pain syndromes (for example, myofascial pain, peripheral neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, degenerative joint disease/osteoarthritis, and migraine headaches).

The Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Patients with Drug-Induced Hyposalivation: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare switched on and switched off (sham) low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the treatment of drug-induced hyposalivation.

BACKGROUND DATA

Hyposalivation is decreased salivary flow rate most frequently present in patients who take a lot of medication, suffer from Sjögren's syndrome, or were irradiated. Available therapies provide only short-term relief.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-three participants (40 females and 3 males, average age 72.3 ± 8.9) participated in the study. Before therapy or after therapy, every participant fulfilled quality-of-life assessment scale (OHIP-CRO14). Unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rates were measured before and after treatment. The LLLT was performed by the use of gallium-aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) laser (830 nm) on parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands every day except during weekends for 14 days.

RESULTS

Significant difference in unstimulated salivary flow rate after the treatment was found in the study group (p = 0.002) compared with the sham group. No significant difference in stimulated salivary flow rate after treatment was found in the laser group (p = 0.626) nor in the sham laser group (p = 0.233). No significant difference in patient's quality-of-life score was found after both treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that the LLLT increased unstimulated salivary flow rate significantly. However, stimulated salivary flow rate did not increase significantly after the LLLT. In patients who underwent sham laser therapy, neither unstimulated nor stimulated salivary flow rate increased significantly.

Low-level laser therapy/photobiomodulation in the management of side effects of chemoradiation therapy in head and neck cancer: part 2: proposed applications and treatment protocols

PURPOSE

There is a large body of evidence supporting the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT), more recently termed photobiomodulation (PBM) for the management of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC). Recent advances in PBM technology, together with a better understanding of mechanisms involved and dosimetric parameters may lead to the management of a broader range of complications associated with HNC treatment. This could enhance patient adherence to cancer therapy, and improve quality of life and treatment outcomes. The mechanisms of action, dosimetric, and safety considerations for PBM have been reviewed in part 1. Part 2 discusses the head and neck treatment side effects for which PBM may prove to be effective. In addition, PBM parameters for each of these complications are suggested and future research directions are discussed.

METHODS

Narrative review and presentation of PBM parameters are based on current evidence and expert opinion.

RESULTS

PBM may have potential applications in the management of a broad range of side effects of (chemo)radiation therapy (CRT) in patients being treated for HNC. For OM management, optimal PBM parameters identified were as follows: wavelength, typically between 633 and 685 nm or 780-830 nm; energy density, laser or light-emitting diode (LED) output between 10 and 150 mW; dose, 2-3 J (J/cm(2)), and no more than 6 J/cm(2) on the tissue surface treated; treatment schedule, two to three times a week up to daily; emission type, pulsed (<100 Hz); and route of delivery, intraorally and/or transcutaneously. To facilitate further studies, we propose potentially effective PBM parameters for prophylactic and therapeutic use in supportive care for dermatitis, dysphagia, dry mouth, dysgeusia, trismus, necrosis, lymphedema, and voice/speech alterations.

CONCLUSION

PBM may have a role in supportive care for a broad range of complications associated with the treatment of HNC with CRT. The suggested PBM irradiation and dosimetric parameters, which are potentially effective for these complications, are intended to provide guidance for well-designed future studies. It is imperative that such studies include elucidating the effects of PBM on oncology treatment outcomes.

Evaluation of low-level laser therapy in the treatment of masticatory muscles spasticity in children with cerebral palsy

Spasticity is a motor disorder frequently present in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the spasticity of the masseter and anterior temporal muscle fibers in children with CP over three weeks of intermittent laser exposures. The bite force (BF) of the masticatory muscles and the amplitude of mouth opening were evaluated before and after laser irradiation in 30 children with CP. Both sides of the masseter and temporalis muscles were irradiated with low-intensity diode laser pulses of 808-nm wavelength six times over three consecutive weeks. During the subsequent three weeks of postlaser exposures, although no laser treatment was applied, the evaluation parameters were measured and recorded. A significant improvement in the amplitude of mouth opening and a decrease in the BF were observed in the weeks following LLLT (P<0.05 ). However, by the sixth week post-LLLT, the BF and the amplitude of mouth opening reverted to values equivalent to those obtained before the first application of LLLT. Our investigation revealed low-level energy exposures from a 808-nm diode laser to be an effective short-term therapeutic tool. This method increased the amplitude of mouth opening and decreased the muscle tonus of children with spastic CP over a time course of three weeks of intermittent laser applications.

Human Tubal-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Associated with Low Level Laser Therapy Significantly Reduces Cigarette Smoke-Induced COPD in C57BL/6 mice

Cigarette smoke-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a very debilitating disease, with a very high prevalence worldwide, which results in a expressive economic and social burden. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches to treat these patients are of unquestionable relevance. The use of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) is an innovative and yet accessible approach for pulmonary acute and chronic diseases, mainly due to its important immunoregulatory, anti-fibrogenic, anti-apoptotic and pro-angiogenic. Besides, the use of adjuvant therapies, whose aim is to boost or synergize with their function should be tested. Low level laser (LLL) therapy is a relatively new and promising approach, with very low cost, no invasiveness and no side effects. Here, we aimed to study the effectiveness of human tube derived MSCs (htMSCs) cell therapy associated with a 30mW/3J-660 nm LLL irradiation in experimental cigarette smoke-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Thus, C57BL/6 mice were exposed to cigarette smoke for 75 days (twice a day) and all experiments were performed on day 76. Experimental groups receive htMSCS either intraperitoneally or intranasally and/or LLL irradiation either alone or in association. We show that co-therapy greatly reduces lung inflammation, lowering the cellular infiltrate and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and KC), which were followed by decreased mucus production, collagen accumulation and tissue damage. These findings seemed to be secondary to the reduction of both NF-κB and NF-AT activation in lung tissues with a concomitant increase in IL-10. In summary, our data suggests that the concomitant use of MSCs + LLLT may be a promising therapeutic approach for lung inflammatory diseases as COPD.