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Changes in mood state following whole-body hyperthermia
K F Koltyn1, H I Robins, C L Schmitt
1Department of Physical Education, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53792.
Summary
Whole-body hyperthermia (WBH) temporarily increased fatigue in cancer patients but significantly improved depression symptoms for up to 72 hours. This mood improvement may relate to WBH-induced beta-endorphin release.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Thermotherapy
Background:
- Cancer patients often experience significant mood disturbances, impacting treatment adherence and quality of life.
- Whole-body hyperthermia (WBH) is an emerging cancer treatment modality with potential systemic effects.
- Understanding the psychological impact of WBH is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of 41.8°C whole-body hyperthermia on the mood states of cancer patients.
- To assess the temporal changes in mood symptoms following WBH treatment.
- To explore potential mechanisms, such as beta-endorphin release, underlying observed mood changes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire for pre- and post-treatment mood assessment.
- Administered 41.8°C whole-body hyperthermia as a therapeutic intervention.
- Tracked mood state changes at multiple time points up to 72 hours post-treatment.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in fatigue and decrease in vigour was observed immediately post-WBH.
- These fatigue and vigour changes returned to baseline levels by 72 hours.
- A significant improvement in depression scores was sustained through 72 hours post-WBH.
Conclusions:
- Whole-body hyperthermia (WBH) induces transient fatigue but offers a sustained antidepressant effect in cancer patients.
- The mood-lifting effects of WBH may be linked to the release of beta-endorphins.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the neurobiological underpinnings of WBH-induced mood modulation in cancer care.