Photobiomodulation therapy in oral mucositis prevention and treatment: insights from a bibliometric review

PURPOSE: This study presents the first bibliometric analysis aimed at evaluating the current state of knowledge and identifying limitations regarding the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) in the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. METHODS: A comprehensive search of the SCOPUS database was undertaken, with bibliometric analyses conducted using the Bibliometrix R-tool, Microsoft Excel, and VOSviewer. RESULTS: A total of 725 articles were retrieved, of which 526 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The 100 most cited articles, published between 1993 and 2025, were selected for analysis. The list comprised 56 primary studies and 44 secondary studies, collectively authored by 610 individuals, yielding an average of 9 authors per article. Research was predominantly concentrating studies focused on the efficacy of photobiomodulation in treating oral mucositis. The USA and Brazil emerged as leading contributors for the highest number of citations and scientific publications, both independently and in international collaborations. Among scientific journals, Supportive Care in Cancer stood out, with 14 of the most cited documents on the subject. CONCLUSION: The list of articles included in this review serves as a relevant source of quantitative data, highlighting studies considered as references, as well as authors, journals, and countries with the highest scientific output. Additionally, it provides emerging insights on the topic.