Laser therapy for hard-to-treat conditions

Author(s): "Lisa Miller, DVM, CCRT"

In this article read about laser therapy for difficult-to-treat conditions.  Conditions discussed in the article include:

• An infection and severely destructive fungal rhinitis/sinusitis from Aspergillosis occurring in a 4-year-old Rottweiler.
• Equine Lagenidiosis in an 18-year-old horse

The "Make a Case with Companion" contest, sponsored by Companion Therapy Laser, showcased compelling cases demonstrating the effectiveness of laser therapy in veterinary medicine. Among many impressive entries, two standout cases featured laser therapy as a last-resort treatment for severe fungal or fungal-like infections in a dog and a horse—both with remarkable results.

Canine Case: "Evo" the Rottweiler

• Submitted by: Dr. Elizabeth Boggier, Mountainview Veterinary Hospital (NJ)

• Condition: Chronic, destructive fungal rhinitis/sinusitis (Aspergillosis) with worsening symptoms despite 3 years of systemic and localized treatments

• Outcome:

  • Laser therapy reduced a painful, draining sinus lesion significantly within 30 days

  • By 8 weeks, swelling was ~5% of its original size and discharge had resolved

  • Patient showed increased comfort and activity

  • Case was shared on VIN to help other vets find complementary options for Aspergillosis

Equine Case: "PDiddy" the Horse

• Submitted by: Dr. Rhonda Ellison, Calera Animal Hospital (AL)

• Condition: Chronic leg lesions consistent with equine lagenidiosis, a severe fungal-like infection with no established treatment outside of surgery

• Outcome:

  • Laser therapy, combined only with bandaging (no meds), led to resolution of lesions

  • Treatment reduced swelling and itch, with the horse relaxing and improving dramatically

  • Laser was credited with saving PDiddy when all other options had failed

These cases highlight laser therapy’s potential immunomodulatory benefits, particularly in challenging infections. Emerging research suggests laser may enhance neutrophil activation and immune response, offering new avenues for treating persistent infections with fewer side effects than prolonged pharmacological therapies.