LIGHTSITE IIIB Extends PBM Evidence in Dry AMD

Findings from the multisite trial of photobiomodulation suggest visual gains can persist after reinitiation of therapy.

By: Jim Gallagher, senior managing editor

Retinal Physician July 31, 2025 Vol 22, Issue July/August 2025

1

The LIGHTSITE IIIB study shows that retreatment with photobiomodulation (PBM) can restore visual gains in intermediate dry AMD after a treatment gap.
2

Patients resuming PBM therapy regained approximately 5 letters of best-corrected visual acuity, while sham-treated patients showed minimal recovery.
3

PBM treatment demonstrated sustained benefits over 54 months, with significant visual improvements noted in patients with lower baseline visual acuity.
4

Baseline disease severity, particularly geographic atrophy, significantly impacted treatment outcomes, with eyes without GA showing better responses.
5

PBM was well tolerated, but some patients developed neovascular AMD, highlighting the need for further research on safety and efficacy.

1