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May 2, 2005

Heat, Radiation Combo Strikes Strong Blow Against Tumors

Researchers now have strong evidence to suggest that turning up the heat on a cancerous tumor just before radiation therapy appears to destroy the tumor much more often than radiation alone does.

The combined treatment method seems to effectively address breast, chest wall, head, neck and skin cancer in newly diagnosed patients and in those coping with recurring illness.

The heating process -- a noninvasive procedure known as hyperthermia -- relies on microwaves to dramatically elevate tumor temperature to approximately 112 degrees Fahrenheit.

Researchers say that such a thermal assault renders cancerous blood vessel walls more porous, while simultaneously provoking a helpful rise in cellular oxygen levels. In this weakened state, the tumor becomes much more vulnerable to subsequent radiation treatment.  Read more ...

Posted by Hyscience at May 2, 2005 8:40 AM

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