Keywords
Diet
Chronic disease
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Abstract
Objective: To investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of photobiomodulation in the management of COVID-19, including both the acute phase and persistent sequelae (Long COVID). Methods: This is an integrative literature review conducted in international databases. Clinical trials, case series, and experimental studies (in vitro and in vivo) published between 2021 and 2026 were included, focusing on dosimetric parameters and clinical outcomes. Results: A total of 16 studies were included. In the acute phase, photobiomodulation demonstrated immunomodulatory effects, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) and improving oxygenation and pulmonary scores. In Long COVID, it showed effectiveness in restoring smell and taste dysfunctions and reducing chronic pain. Mechanistically, it promotes mitochondrial modulation and inhibits the NF-κB pathway. Final considerations: Photobiomodulation shows promise as a non-invasive adjuvant therapy for COVID-19. However, protocol heterogeneity limits clinical standardization, highlighting the need for further randomized clinical trials.
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