Laser light may improve the symptoms of oral lesions of cicatricial pemphigoid: a case report

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this work is to report the handling of a patient suffering from cicatricial pemphigoid (CP) treated with laser phototherapy (LPT) and systemic steroids. Background Data: CP is a group of rare chronic autoimmune blistering diseases that predominately affect the mucous membranes and occasionally the skin. The gingiva is most commonly involved, followed by the palate and the buccal mucosa. High-dosage systemic steroids are widely used for its treatment. LPT has been shown to improve wound healing and relieve pain. Its efficacy depends on the amount of energy delivered to the tissue, exposure time, and delivery method. Materials and Methods: A white 47-y-old man with CP who used systemic steroids for the previous 5 y was examined at our clinic. Extra- and intraoral examination revealed classic signs of the condition. LPT (GaAlAs diode laser, 660 nm wavelength, 30 mW, continuous wave, diameter 3 mm, 60 J/cm2 per session) was used in association with the steroids. LPT was performed in a punctual contact manner every other day on the oral mucosa. Maintenance of the treatment was carried out weekly because interruption of the LPT resulted in the recurrence of the lesions. At the time that this report was written, the patient had been undergoing twice weekly treatments for 6 months without signs of lesion recurrence. Conclusion: Concomitant use of systemic steroids and LPT showed a positive effect on controlling oral CP lesions and on improving both oral health and the quality of life of the patient.