Low-Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: A Promising Procedure

Background: Mucous membrane pemphigoid is a heterogeneous group of autoimmune, subepithelial, blistering diseases. A combination of topical and systemic steroid treatment is often used when managing patients with mucous membrane pemphigoid. The use of systemic steroids presents an increased risk of adverse side effects. Consequently, effective alternative modalities of therapy should be considered, such as the application of low-level laser therapy (LLLT). Methods: A patient presented with mucous membrane pemphigoid and was successfully treated with the application of local corticosteroids and LLLT using an 810-nm diode laser. The lesions were treated by LLLT over a period of 7 days using a continuous waveform for 40 seconds and an energy density of 5 J/cm(2). Results: After treatment, a significant improvement in tissue color and consistency was observed. The patient was followed every month for a period of 12 months, and the lesions healed uneventfully. Conclusion: The results reported in this case show that the healing of mucous membrane pemphigoid was achieved when LLLT was used as an adjunct to the application of a local corticosteroid. J Periodontol 2010;81:1226-1230.