The effect of the low-level laser on prevention of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis in patients with acute leukemia

Abstract

Statement of Problem: Low-level laser has been shown to be beneficial in reducing significantly chemotherapy-induced mucositis. However, the approach has not gained wide acceptance, so far. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy clinically in prevention of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis in patients suffering acute hematologic cancers. Materials and Methods: 40 patients who aged 12 and older, who had acute myeloid / lymphoid leukemia and were receiving myeloablative chemotherapy regimen were included. Patients were randomly divided into the control and the experiment groups. A diode laser (Aluminum Gallium Indium; Azor-2k-02, Russia, λ = 660 nm, power: 25 mw, spot size: 2 mm, continuous mode, Energy: 1.5 J per point) was applied on 12 points for one month, twice weekly. Results: Based on the WHO scales, In the fourth session, the people suffering from mucositis were increased to 18 people, 12 of which were in the control group. This increasing trend has been also observed in NCI scales, so that in the fourth session, the number of people suffering from mucositis reached to 12 persons and the severity and degree of leisure reached to 3, 4. Conclusion: Low level laser could reduce the severity and the pain of the mucositis.