Radio frequency hyperthermia of advanced human sarcomas

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Abstract
Hyperthermia ⩾ 42°C is tumoricidal in vitro and in many animal models, although such temperatures have only recently been achieved experimentally in some human cancers. A recently developed radio frequency device that provides safe hyperthermia to any depth without surface tissue injury now permits evaluation of the effects of hyperthermia on advanced human sarcomas. Twelve patients with large sarcomas located intraabdominally [7], in the chest wall [2], proximal extremity [2], and the neck [1], were evaluated in this study. Tumor types include liposarcoma [3], rhabdomyosarcoma [2], leiomyosarcoma [2], neurofibrosarcoma [2], and one each malignant mesothelioma, undifferentiated sarcoma, and osteosarcoma. Intratumor temperatures ⩾42°C were observed in all tumors, with virtually no normal tissue injury. Selective tumor heatin ⩾45°C occurred in 9/12 (75%) and ⩾50°C in 6/12 (50%). One to five weekly treatments ⩾50°C and ten daily treatments ⩾45°C resulted in significant tumor necrosis and pain relief in some patients. Hyperthermia of advanced sarcomas is possible with little host toxicity and may be of potential therapeutic benefit.