Cruz, L.B., Ribeiro, A.S., Rech, A., Rosa, L.G., Castro, C.G., & Brunetto, A.L. (2007). Influence of low-energy laser in the prevention of oral mucositis in children with cancer receiving chemotherapy. Pediatric Blood and Cancer, 48(4), 435–440.

780 nm 60 mW 4 J/cm² was applied uniformly to five areas of the oral cavity for five consecutive days from initiation of chemotherapy.

The sample was pediatric patients (some with HSCT) receiving a variety of chemotherapies.

Laser group: n = 29
Control group: n = 31
 

The study ran from May 2003-February 2005.

RCT was the study design.

CTC-NCI
Nutritional Status Assessment
Day 8,15
 

Day 8 results: 13 patients in the laser group and 7 patients in the control group with mucositis; median grade of mucositis was 2 for the laser group and 1 for the control group (p = 0.234)

Day 15 results: 13 patients in the laser group and 11 patients in the control group with mucositis; median grade of mucositis was 1 in both groups; prevalence and severity were similar (p = 0.208)
 

Almost identical prevalence of mucositis and other findings; no evidence to support laser for prevention

Rigorous oral care may have masked results.

Optimal timing of laser treatment is unknown.

Small sample