Sequential regional hyperthermia: a possible answer for the treatment of cancer

A therapeutic rationale for the treatment of metastatic cancer is presented which incorporates the use of deep regional hyperthermia of major body areas such as the thorax and abdomen. These body areas would be treated sequentially with the goal of eliminating the problems inherent to whole-body hyperthermia. To achieve this goal, a tri-modality approach is considered which combines regional deep heating with regional x-ray therapy and with drug therapy using agents which are heat as well as radiation hypoxic cell sensitizers (Nitroimidazoles or glucose analogues). The rationale for such an approach is well founded at the basic research level. The benefit of the tri-modality approach is that therapeutic levels of drug, X-rays and heat can be reduced significantly and hopefully be non-toxic.