While photobiomodulation shows promise for early-stage retinal conditions, therapeutic efficacy may be limited in advanced disease states where cellular damage is extensive. This pilot study specifically examined 670 nm photobiomodulation in patients with intermediate AMD and found no significant therapeutic effects compared to earlier-stage interventions. The lack of response likely reflects advanced mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular damage that exceeds the reparative capacity of photobiomodulation therapy. This finding suggests that 670 nm therapy may be most effective as an early intervention or preventive measure rather than a treatment for advanced AMD. The study provides important clinical context for appropriate patient selection and realistic therapeutic expectations when implementing photobiomodulation protocols for retinal health.
Later research by Shinhmar et al. (2021) showed weeklong improvements in colour contrast sensitivity after single 670 nm exposures
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Editor’s note: Compare intermediate-AMD responses here with aging-cohort results in Grewal 2020. Mechanistic underpinnings for photoreceptor protection and inflammation control are detailed in Albarracin 2011 and Eells 2003.
