Recurrent labial herpes (RLH), caused by the
herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), affects 20% to 40% of young adults.
Although often self-limiting, RLH causes bothersome symptoms such as pain and
vesicular lesions. The standard treatment, based on the application of
acyclovir cream, is limited by its poor penetration into subcutaneous tissues
and partial efficacy, prompting increasing interest in complementary therapies.
This study investigates the use of photobiomodulation (PBMT) as an adjunct to
conventional treatment.
Can Photobiomodulation be considered for the treatment of labial herpes?
To assess the effectiveness of PBMT as a
complement to acyclovir, 22 patients with RLH were selected and divided into
two groups:
- PBMT +
Acyclovir Group:
Application of acyclovir cream combined with low-level laser therapy (940
nm, 4 J/cm²).
- Control
Group: Acyclovir cream
combined with sham laser treatment.
The treatment's effectiveness was measured by
evaluating the following variables: pain (via a visual analog scale), lesion
size, and patient satisfaction (assessed before treatment and on days 1, 3, 7,
and 10 after the intervention).
The analysis of the study results demonstrated:
- A significant
reduction in pain as early as the second day post-treatment in the
PBMT group (p < 0.001).
- A notable
decrease in lesion size on the 7th and 10th days in the PBMT group (p
< 0.05).
- Higher
patient satisfaction in
the group receiving the combined therapy (p = 0.008).
Learn More. PBMT works by stimulating cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and
promoting healing, thereby enhancing the efficacy of acyclovir.
PBMT and Acyclovir: A promising combination for herpes treatment
By significantly reducing pain intensity and
lesion size, PBMT combined with acyclovir emerges as a promising
adjunct
therapy for the treatment of RLH. Further research is needed to confirm its
long-term efficacy and safety, elucidate its antiviral mechanisms, and develop
even more effective strategies for improved patient care in RLH.
