OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this work was to study the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the healing and relapse intervals in patients with recurrent labial herpes simplex infections.BACKGROUND DATA: Several pharmaceuticals are available to reduce symptoms and improb? healing of labial herpes, but only LLLT has been reported to significantly influence the length of the recurrence period.MATERIAL AND METHODS: In an initial study, 232 patients with herpes simplex type 1 virus symptoms were consecutively selected for either LLLT or conventional therapy, including acyclovir cream or tablets. One of the dentists was responsible for the diagnosis, a second dentist for the treatment, and and a third for the evaluation, to allow for a semi-blinded procedure. Patients in the laser group received 670-nm laser irradiation, 40 mW, 1.6 J, 2.04 J/cm(2), 51 mW/cm(2) per blister in the prodromal stage and 4.8 J in the crust and secondarily infected stages, plus 1.2 J at the C2-C3 vertebrae. Patients were monitored daily during the first week to control healing, and monthly for 1 year to check on recurrence. In a consecutive study, 322 patients receiving LLLT were followed during 5 years to observe the period of ocurrences.RESULTS: An obvious effect of LLLT was found for both initial healing and for the length of the recurrence periods.CONCLUSIONS: LLLTof herpes simples virus 1 (HSV-1) appears to be an effective treatment modality without any observed side effects.
Adolescent Adult