Hyperthermia in gynecologic cancers

The opinion from most of the current data is that malignant tumors may be more heat sensitive than normal tissues. Hyperthermia has been tested in both randomized and non-randomized trials in gynecologic cancers, but has not found a place currently, as there is scarce data. As a consequence, adding this tool into the conventional methods of cervical cancer and ovarian cancer treatment has not been supported. Hyperthermia modifies the effects of not only ionizing radiation but also a number of chemotherapeutic agents. The use of hyperthermia in cervical cancer is of interest to the radiotherapist, not only because it sensitizes cells to the lethal effects of X-rays but even more because hypoxic cells which are most resistant to X-rays appear to be most sensitive to hyperthermia. Most of the data on the efficacy of intraperitoneal infusion with hyperthermia comes from experimental studies or some phase I/II investigations. Since intraperitoneal chemotherapy is potentiated by hyperthermia in areas which are at high risk for recurrence, further study maybe indicated. The current role for hyperthermia in ovarian cancer remains experimental. Additional trials to test the value of hyperthermia in patients treated with concurrent chemotherapy and radiation are imperative, and good news is expected from the ongoing studies.