SYSTEMIC THERMOTHERAPY (WHOLE-BODY HYPERTHERMIA)

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 17  (8) , 329-333
Abstract
The literature and experience to date in the treatment of cancer using whole body hyperthermia [WBHT] in the 1st 60 patients are reviewed. WBHT is an effective method of treating cancer. Patients were treated for a total of 8 h, 180.degree. F for 2 h. WBHT was induced by means of 2 high-flow water filled blankets. Toxicity included fatigue, nausea, diarrhea and 1st degree burns. There was no evidence of visceral damage. There were no mortalities during the procedure. Objective reponses were 50%; subjective responses were 65%. The literature demonstrates and this study confirms that under closely monitored conditions, WBHT is a feasible, safe and active anti-cancer therapy. WBHT may be safely used as an adjunct to other active cancer therapies including X-ray therapy and chemotherapy.