Clinical practice recommendations and expected outcomes with fluorescent light energy: a Delphi-like consensus

Background: Fluorescent Light Energy (FLE) is a promising alternative to systemic therapies in veterinary dermatology and surgery for managing skin conditions and improving the quality of life of animals and their owners. Hypothesis/objectives: In the absence of specific recommendations for FLE use, an international DELPHI consensus research project was conducted to establish best practices. Methods: An international Steering Committee (SC) of a board-certified veterinary surgeon and veterinary dermatologists combined a literature review with clinical expertise to create recommendations. General practitioners and veterinarians of various specialties were selected to review and vote on the recommendations. Votes were collected electronically, independently, and anonymously. Results: The statements covering the following topics were analyzed in this paper: (i) Understanding photobiomodulation via FLE; (ii) Indications and Protocols for FLE; and (iii) FLE pet owner information. Consensus was reached on 33 out of 33 statements (100%) addressing the use of photobiomodulation via FLE; the practical modalities of FLE as monotherapy or adjunct therapy; healing biological benefits of photobiomodulation; reduction of antibiotic use in the management of bacterial skin infections; clinical indications where FLE can show the most favorable results along with protocols and duration of treatment; and communication with animal owners on safety measures and FLE’s benefits for their animal. Conclusions and clinical importance: This consensus provides practical guidelines on the utilization, application, and benefits of FLE when addressing veterinary dermatological conditions. It contributes to optimizing animal and owner welfare and bridges the gap between expert recommendations and the real-life experiences of general practice veterinarians.