Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Prevention and Treatment of Radiodermatitis in Breast Cancer Patients: Systematic Review

Radiodermatitis (RD) is the most common side-effect of radiation therapy, yet its prevention and treatment through photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) have demonstrated promising results. This study aimed to synthesize the evidence concerning the use of PBMT in managing RD among breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.

This is a systematic review with no time restrictions, based on the methodology proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), including such databases as PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL. The studies were selected based on the following inclusion criteria: female participants over 18 years of age and females having breast cancer and undergoing radiation therapy using a three-dimensional technique or an intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) technique. Two reviewers assessed the methodological quality using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist,and the report was described based on PRISMA guidelines.

Red and infrared wavelengths were used. Device power ranged from 1.1 W to 0.08 W for continuous modes and 25 W for pulsed mode, resulting in a 3 and 4 J/cm2 fluence, applied throughout radiation therapy, leading to a reduced severity in cutaneous reactions.

PBMT can reduce the severity of RD. New clinical trials are required to standardize protocols, given the scarcity of studies for the adopted site and methodological diversity.