PBM and Cancer - What is the Truth?
Because PBM was shown to stimulate the growth of cancer cells in cell culture studies,5 and can also increase the aggressiveness of some cancer cells,6 some commentators have asserted that PBM may be contraindicated in clinical use in patients with cancer.7 However, not all experimental studies have found the same results. In contrast, it was realized that PBM was highly effective in the mitigation of numerous distressing side effects that occur as a result of a range of different kinds of cancer therapy.8,9
Figure 1 presents a graphical summary of the different kinds of cancer-therapy side effects that could possibly be treated by PBM. These side effects can be so severe that they often lead to the suspension or discontinuation of the cancer therapy with consequent risk to the patient. Perhaps the single most effective indication for PBM (among all known diseases and conditions) is that of oral mucositis.10 Oral mucositis is a common side effect of many kinds of chemotherapy and of radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.11 Other side effects that are under investigation by PBM treatment are chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy,12 radiation dermatitis associated with breast cancer therapy,13 and lymphedema as a result of breast cancer surgery.14
Photobiomodulation can help manage the side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
PBM treatments use red and infrared laser light, which is non-ionizing and very safe.
Results: Although there are a few articles suggesting that PBM therapy can be detrimental in animal models of tumors, there are also many articles that suggest the opposite and that light can directly damage the tumor, can potentiate other cancer therapies, and can stimulate the host immune system. Moreover, there are two clinical trials showing increased survival in cancer patients who received PBM therapy.
Conclusions: PBM therapy may have benefits in cancer patients and should be further investigated.