The role of hyperthermia in optimizing tumor response to regional therapy.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the role of hyperthermia in optimizing the response to regional therapy for cancer.


METHODS
A review of the current literature discussing mechanism of action, experimental models and prospective, randomized trials was performed.


RESULTS
The mechanism of action of hyperthermia in combination with radiation and cytotoxic chemotherapy at the cellular and tissue levels is described. Data supporting the benefit of hyperthermia in conjunction with both regional, infusional chemotherapy, and locoregional radiation therapy is demonstrated. Several different histologic tumor types are covered, all with prospective evidence supporting the benefit of hyperthermia.


CONCLUSIONS
Although delivery methods for hyperthermia can be complex and difficult to implement, the data support its benefit and further endeavors to include hyperthermia as a component of regional therapy should be encouraged.
Moyer
Hunter R
HR
Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Delman
Keith A
KA
D000818:Animals; D010478:Chemotherapy, Cancer, Regional Perfusion / Q000379:methods*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000379:methods; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D006979:Hyperthermia, Induced; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply / Q000628:therapy*; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000379:methods