Effects of Low Level Laser Therapy on Oral Mucositis Caused by Anticancer Chemotherapy in Pediatric Patients

Kim, Hae Ja; Rho, Shi Youn; Shin, Yong Sup

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Oral mucositis is a common complication of anticancer chemotherapy. The sequelae of this consist of an increased risk of infection, moderate to severe pain, compromised oral function, and bleeding. This study was performed to evaluated the effects of the He-Ne laser and the Ga-Al-As laser on oral mucositis caused by anticancer chemotherapy in pediatric patients.
METHODS
There were 3 cases of osteosarcoma and 6 cases of leukemia. All patients received He-Ne laser (632.8 nm wavelength, power 60 mW) application on 400-600 Hz scanning for 5-20 minutes and Ga-Al-As laser (904 nm wavelength, power 40 mW) application by fiberoptic hand piece placed in immediate proximity to the tissue without direct contact with it for 30 seconds per point for 5 days per week. During the application patients wore wavelength-specific dark glasses and were instructed to keep their eyes closed.
RESULTS
The mean number of treatments with oral intake was 4.89+/-0.64. The mean number of total treatments was 9.44+/-2.59. There were no significant side effects during and after the laser treatments.
CONCLUSIONS
He-Ne laser and Ga-Al-As (IR) laser treatment were well tolerated and reduced the severity and duration of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis in pediatric oncologic patients.