Introduction to Hyperthermia as Part of CMN Hospital’s ACT Protocol

At CMN Hospital, our Alternative Cancer Treatment (ACT) program includes hyperthermia as an integral component of our comprehensive cancer treatment protocol. Hyperthermia involves elevating the body's temperature to treat cancer by damaging or destroying tumors using heat. This treatment mimics the body’s natural fever response, which is a crucial part of the immune system’s defense mechanism. During a fever, elevated temperatures enhance the activity of immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, T-cells, and B-cells. These cells become more efficient at eliminating pathogens and stimulating an adaptive immune response. Similarly, hyperthermia boosts immune function, improving the body's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells while directly damaging the cancer cells through heat exposure.

Local Hyperthermia

According to the American Cancer Society, local hyperthermia treatment occurs when "very high temperatures are used to kill the cancer cells and destroy nearby blood vessels. In effect, this cooks the area that is exposed to the heat. And, as with cooking, the higher the temperature and duration of exposure, the greater the effect seen within tissues." During local hyperthermia treatments, "different types of energy may be used to apply heat, including microwave, radio-frequency, and ultrasound," so the treatment is adjustable to your specific medical condition, with regard to your doctors’ discretion, as well as the location of the tumor. For example, local hyperthermia may be applied externally, primarily to tumors that "are in or just below the skin. External applicators are positioned around or near the appropriate region, and energy is focused on raising the tumor's temperature." Local hyperthermia can also be used to treat tumors within or near body cavities and those deep within the body.

Regional Hyperthermia

Regional hyperthermia differs from local hyperthermia in that heat is applied to large tissue areas, such as a limb, organ, or other body cavity or surface. One "approach to regional hyperthermia is deep tissue hyperthermia. This treatment uses devices that are placed on the surface of the organ or body cavity and produce high energy waves directed at a certain area. These devices give off radiofrequency or microwave energy to heat the area being treated." Another way in which regional hyperthermia treatment is utilized is through "external applicators, [which] are positioned around the body cavity or organ to be treated, and microwave or radiofrequency energy is focused on the area to raise its temperature."

Mechanism of Action

Hyperthermia is an advanced treatment that requires the utmost attention to detail because the body is extremely sensitive to fluctuations in internal temperature, which can alter the homeostatic normality within the body. However, hyperthermia treatment can strengthen the immune system at different levels to ensure the body can tackle any infection. In response to fevers, macrophages release chemical messengers that assist the body in eliminating bacteria. Additionally, dendritic cells sense pathogens and respond to fever-like temperatures by increasing their phagocytic activity. They more easily stimulate adaptive immune T-cells. Fevers also activate cells of our adaptive immune system, such as T and B-cells, that further help the clearance of pathogens.

Hyperthermia treatment is also implemented in a range of techniques locally and regionally, thus making the treatment flexible to your specific medical circumstance as part of your overall treatment plan.

Safety of Hyperthermia

The safety of hyperthermia treatments is well-documented. When administered under professional medical supervision, hyperthermia is a safe and effective treatment. Side effects are generally mild and may include skin redness, discomfort at the treatment site, and in rare cases, burns. Advanced monitoring techniques and precision equipment ensure that the temperature is controlled accurately, minimizing any risks. Clinical studies, including those published in the International Journal of Hyperthermia, support the safe use of hyperthermia in combination with other cancer treatments, highlighting its role as a valuable adjunct therapy.

Research Support

Research has shown that hyperthermia can enhance the effectiveness of other cancer treatments. For example, a study published in the International Journal of Hyperthermia found that combining hyperthermia with radiation therapy significantly improved treatment outcomes for various cancers, demonstrating its potential as a powerful adjunct therapy.

Conclusion

Hyperthermia represents a promising addition to our cancer treatment options at CMN Hospital, offering a scientifically supported method to enhance the effectiveness of traditional therapies. We are dedicated to advancing patient care through innovative treatments like hyperthermia. For more information on how hyperthermia can be part of your cancer treatment plan, please contact CMN Hospital. Our team is here to provide you with the support and information you need. 1(844)371-1117