The Use of Blue Light as an Antimicrobial Treatment Against Staphylococcus aureus: A Systematic Review.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review assessed blue light without exogenous photosensitizers as an antimicrobial treatment for Staphylococcus aureus across in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Thirty-three articles were included, covering planktonic bacteria, biofilms, and MRSA-specific outcomes; 405 nm was the predominant wavelength tested (87.9%). Blue light reduced bacterial burden across models, but effects varied with dose and experimental conditions. The authors concluded that heterogeneity and limited in vivo evidence constrain clinical translation and proposed eight parameters for standardized reporting in future studies.

Key findings

• Thirty-three articles were included: 20 planktonic models, 6 biofilm models, and 17 with MRSA-specific outcomes.
• The predominant wavelength tested was 405 nm (87.9%).
• Bacterial burden decreased across models, although results varied by dose and experimental conditions.
• Statistical significance was not reported in 57.6% of studies.

Why it matters

The review brings together evidence that blue light can reduce S. aureus burden, including MRSA, while highlighting why laboratory findings may not yet translate reliably to clinical care. Variation in study methods and dosing, alongside limited in vivo data, makes it difficult to judge effectiveness and safety across settings. Standardized reporting could improve comparability in future research.

What to keep in mind

The evidence was heterogeneous, in vivo data were limited, and 57.6% of studies did not report statistical significance.