Intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) used to treat lung diseases: a short critical review

Abstract

Intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) was developed to treat cardiovascular diseases due to its rheological effects. In its original form, ILIB was applied by an intravenous optical fiber, restricting its application. However, this technique was modified to non-invasive irradiation through the radial artery, now called vascular photobiomodulation (VPBM). Many studies have used both, ILIB and VPBM, to treat lung diseases. It is well established that lung diseases affect more than 300 million people worldwide with high morbidity and mortality rates. In this short critical review, we discuss the potential benefits of photobiomodulation to treat lung diseases using these two approaches. The search was performed in the electronic database of MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online) via PubMed. The data search was carried out from 1991 to 2017. We selected a total of 10 clinical studies using either ILIB or VPBM, in addition to 2 experimental studies in animals. The respiratory diseases treated in these studies included bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, and tuberculosis. The results showed overall beneficial effects on lung diseases, characterized by a reduction in the inflammatory cascade and antioxidant effects, improvement of hemodynamic parameters, the efficiency of gas exchange, and reduction of hospitalization periods. In conclusion, all studies showed promising effects of ILIB in both animal and human studies. The studies did not discuss any disadvantages or contraindications. However, further studies are needed in order to understand the dosimetry, and the literature is lacking in randomized, controlled clinical trials. Thus, this review highlights the need for additional studies using this approach.

Intravascular Laser Blood Irradiation (ILIB) Enhances Antioxidant Activity and Energy Metabolism in Aging Ovaries

“…ILIB has gained recognition, not only for its efficacy in addressing vascular-related diseases, but also for its potential therapeutic advantages in a wide range of health conditions extending beyond cardiovascular issues [ 21 ]. Research has extensively explored its ability to improve microcirculation, enhance tissue oxygenation, and alleviate oxidative stress, particularly in conditions such as atherosclerosis and hypertension [ 26 ].…”

“…ILIB entailed exposing circulating blood to low-intensity laser irradiation, a process known to stimulate mitochondrial activity, augment cellular metabolism, and regulate inflammatory responses. This treatment modality involved directing a low-intensity laser beam onto the bloodstream, where it interacted with blood cells, potentially influencing various physiological processes [ 21 ]. These effects are attributed to the activation of cellular signaling pathways, including the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes and the modulation of proinflammatory cytokine production [ 22 ].…”