Oral mucositis (OM) is the most common oral toxicity associated with cancer treatments adversely affecting patient comfort, quality of life, susceptibility to infection, nutritional impairment and psychological issues. It is a significant complication of radiation therapy to the head & neck region and chemotherapy, especially when associated with Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant. Although there are some promising products on the horizon, there is currently no standard prevention or treatment for OM. Therefore, focus normally consists of palliation, prevention/treatment of infections and pain management.

In 2007, the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) upgraded Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) as a “recommended” method for the prevention of OM during bone-marrow and stem cell transplantation.

So, how does LLLT help with OM?

LLLT has shown to promote wound healing, reduce pain and inflammation