Assessing the Efficacy and Safety of Photobiomodulation for the Treatment of Pruritus
Massachusetts General Hospital
Summary
This study is designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a low-level near-infrared LED light device for relieving itch. The device is non-invasive, does not break the skin, and does not produce heat. Near-infrared light has been used in other medical settings and is known to interact with skin and nerve pathways. In this study, researchers are examining whether this light can be safely applied to the skin and whether it may help reduce itch by affecting signals involved in itch sensation.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Participant is an adult at least 18 years-of-age. 2. Participant meets the criteria for acute or chronic itch as defined below: 1. Acute itch lasting less than 6 weeks. 2. Chronic itch lasting more than 6 weeks. 3. Participant is able and willing to comply with all the study visit, treatment, and evaluation schedules and requirements. 4. Participant can understand and provide written informed consent. 5. Participant does not have any concurrent injury or wound in their target treatment area. 6. Participant is either untreated for their pruritus, or if on therapy,…
Interventions
- DeviceLight-emitting diode (LED) Photobiomodulation (PBM) device
Near-infrared light treatment will be administered to an area on the body experiencing itch.
- OtherPlacebo
Matching placebo delivered by placing the device above the skin on an area contralateral to the treatment area without activating it.
Location
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General HospitalBoston, Massachusetts