Radiation Dermatitis Controlled with Photomodulation
A study performed by OncoLogics, Incorporated noted the benefits of treating breast cancer patients who have radiation dermatitis with the GentleWaves device, an LED photomodulation technology. Findings were published in the journal Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, as well as presented at the 26th ASLMS Annual Meeting.
Patients with breast cancer who undergo radiation therapy treatment for their malignancy often develop radiation dermatitis. Previous research indicates that light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation therapy reduces tissue inflammation and increases dermal collagen production, which helps to control radiation dermatitis.
The team evaluated use of the GentleWaves device in a series of 19 patients, manufactured by Light BioScience, LLC, which delivers photomodulation therapy. Patients were matched with appropriate controls who did not undergo photomodulation for the dermatitis.
The team assessed whether the device would minimize discomfort and inflammation in the area where dermatitis had developed following intensity-modulated radiation therapy, reducing the side effects of critical therapy.
Patients who did not receive LED therapy were more likely to develop grade 1, 2, or 3 skin reactions according to the NCI criteria during radiation therapy treatment. Only one of the patients who received photomodulation therapy had to interrupt treatment, compared to 19 of those who served as controls.
October 11, 2007 Related topics: Medical Devices & Products, Radiology, Hematology & Oncology, Dermatology