Photobiomodulation In Early Retinal Degenerative Disease: A Prospective Clinical Evaluation Of Functional And Structural Outcomes

To assess the safety and functional impact of retinal photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in patients with early-stage retinal degenerative disease, focusing on visual function, retinal sensitivity and patient-reported outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate whether PBM may serve as a non-invasive adjunctive therapy to support retinal cellular metabolism and function.

Prospective single-centre clinical study conducted at a tertiary ophthalmic referral centre in Germany, integrated into routine medical retina care.

Prospective interventional cohort study including 48 patients (96 eyes) diagnosed with early retinal degenerative disease (early dry age-related macular degeneration). Inclusion criteria were age 45–80 years, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ≥0.2 logMAR, and stable retinal findings for ≥6 months. Patients received nine PBM sessions over 3 weeks using a low-level light therapy device delivering red to near-infrared wavelengths transocularly. Assessments were performed at baseline and 8 weeks after treatment completion and included BCVA (ETDRS), contrast sensitivity (Pelli–Robson), macular sensitivity using microperimetry, and retinal structure on OCT. Safety outcomes included adverse events and OCT-detected progression. Statistical analysis used paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (p < 0.05).

Results (max 750 chars)
Mean BCVA remained stable (baseline 0.18 ± 0.09 logMAR vs 0.16 ± 0.10 logMAR, p = 0.08). Mean contrast sensitivity improved from 1.42 ± 0.12 to 1.55 ± 0.14 (p < 0.01). Mean macular sensitivity on microperimetry increased from 23.1 ± 2.8 dB to 25.0 ± 2.6 dB (p < 0.001). OCT analysis showed no evidence of accelerated retinal thinning or new atrophic changes. No treatment-related adverse events were observed.

Conclusions (max 750 chars)
Retinal photobiomodulation was safe and associated with significant improvements in functional parameters, particularly contrast sensitivity and macular retinal sensitivity, while maintaining structural stability. PBM may represent a promising non-invasive adjunctive approach in early retinal degenerative disease. Larger controlled studies with longer follow-up are warranted to confirm durability and disease-modifying potential.