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Clinical hyperthermia in the 1990s: does the buck stop here?
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013.
Summary
Clinical hyperthermia research in the USA faces challenges, with limited funding and a lack of large-scale trials. While early studies show promise, further Phase III evidence is needed to confirm hyperthermia
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Physics
- Radiotherapy Research
Background:
- Clinical hyperthermia research in the USA is currently facing significant challenges.
- A review of major journals and NCI funding indicates a slowdown in the field.
- Limited extramural and decreasing third-party funding further exacerbate the situation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current state of clinical hyperthermia in the USA.
- To identify ongoing research activities and funding trends.
- To evaluate the progress and future prospects of hyperthermia as a cancer treatment modality.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of clinical manuscripts published in key journals (1990-1993).
- Inquiry to the National Cancer Institute regarding extramural funding for hyperthermia projects.
- Survey of institutions actively engaged in clinical hyperthermia research.
Main Results:
- No clinical hyperthermia trials are currently conducted by US cooperative groups.
- The majority of ongoing research involves Phase I and pilot studies.
- Numerous studies suggest improved clinical response (CR) rates and local control when hyperthermia is combined with radiotherapy, but Phase III validation is absent.
Conclusions:
- Clinical hyperthermia in the USA is at a critical juncture with limited large-scale clinical trials.
- While preliminary data is promising, robust Phase III evidence is lacking to confirm efficacy.
- Decreasing funding and a focus on early-phase studies pose significant hurdles for the advancement of hyperthermia in cancer treatment.