Red & Infrared Light Therapy for Cancer Side Effects & Healing | Photobiomodulation

Managing the side effects of cancer treatment is a significant focus of supportive care, and emerging evidence suggests that photobiomodulation – using red and infrared light – can offer a valuable approach. This technique, now integrated into supportive care protocols in oncology, aims to mitigate discomfort and improve quality of life for patients undergoing challenging therapies.

Targeting Treatment Side Effects

In oncology, photobiomodulation shows promise in addressing several side effects stemming from radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted oral therapies. Specifically, it’s being used to treat or lessen the severity of mucitis – inflammation of the mucous membranes – and dermatitis, or skin inflammation. These conditions can be intensely painful, sometimes requiring opioid pain management. When they interfere with eating, they can lead to malnutrition and a cascade of negative health consequences.

Preventive and Curative Applications

The light emitted by photobiomodulation devices, whether LED or laser, is non-ionizing, athermic (doesn’t generate heat), and painless. Importantly, it doesn’t produce any known adverse effects and offers tissue-healing, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and regenerative properties. The treatment can be used both curatively, to help repair already damaged tissues, and preventatively, starting early in the oncology treatment process. A series of sessions administered immediately after radiotherapy can help prevent the development of debilitating side effects.

The underlying science of photobiomodulation involves stimulating cellular function. According to a recent overview in PlainSite, the technique is gaining traction as clinicians seek non-pharmacological approaches to supportive care.

Focus on ORL Cancers and Breast Cancer

Currently, two primary applications of photobiomodulation in oncology are gaining prominence. The first is managing oral mucitis in patients with head and neck cancers (ORL) undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which often manifests as painful mouth ulcers. The second is addressing epithelitis, a skin inflammation linked to radiotherapy for breast cancer. This inflammation presents as redness and can cause burning, tingling, or itching sensations.

Research is also exploring the leverage of photobiomodulation to treat peripheral neuropathies – nerve damage – resulting from certain chemotherapies, particularly in breast cancer treatment. These nerve issues can be debilitating and, in some cases, permanent. Studies are investigating whether photobiomodulation can promote nerve regeneration and improve blood flow to affected areas.

Expanding Applications and Ongoing Research

Beyond these established uses, photobiomodulation is being studied for glioblastomas (brain tumors) and, outside of oncology, for neuropathic pain and lymphedema. Clinical trials are underway to broaden the range of conditions it can effectively treat. The recent formation of a French-speaking Society for Photobiomodulation aims to develop standardized treatment protocols. ¹

Understanding Photobiomodulation: How it Works

Photobiomodulation, also known as low-level laser or light therapy (LLLT), works by using non-thermal light to stimulate cellular processes. The light photons penetrate the tissue and are absorbed by chromophores within cells, particularly in the mitochondria – the cell’s powerhouses. This absorption triggers a cascade of biochemical events, increasing ATP production (energy), reducing oxidative stress, and modulating inflammation.

It’s important to note that photobiomodulation is distinct from other light-based therapies like laser surgery, which uses high-intensity light to cut or destroy tissue. Photobiomodulation utilizes low-intensity light to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.

What to Discuss with Your Healthcare Team

If you are undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing side effects like mucitis or dermatitis, discuss photobiomodulation with your oncologist or radiation oncologist. Even as it’s not a replacement for standard medical care, it may be a valuable addition to your supportive care plan. It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion about the potential benefits and risks, as well as whether photobiomodulation is appropriate for your specific situation.

The availability of photobiomodulation treatment may vary depending on your location and healthcare facility. The National Cancer Institute provides comprehensive information about cancer treatment side effects and supportive care options.

Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of photobiomodulation and its potential applications. As more studies are completed and standardized protocols are developed, this technique may turn into an even more integral part of comprehensive cancer care.