Whole Body Hyperthermia (WBH) is an innovative medical treatment that elevates the body’s core temperature to promote healing and activate the immune system. This ancient therapeutic method, now supported by modern research, shows significant promise in treating a variety of medical conditions, particularly cancer.
Raising the body’s core temperature triggers the production of key proteins called cytokines, which are crucial to immune system function. Notably, interferon-gamma, a powerful immunostimulant, boosts the immune system’s capacity to fight infections and diseases, and also exhibits anti-tumor effects. Similarly, hyperthermia increases the production of interleukin-2, a protein responsible for stimulating the growth of immune cells, including natural killer cells that detect and destroy tumor cells.
WBH enhances the effectiveness of cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, making it a valuable tool in oncology. When combined with these therapies, WBH improves treatment outcomes and response rates, acting as a potent sensitizer to make cancer cells more vulnerable.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Whole Body Hyperthermia for Immune Treatment?
Raising the temperature of body cells induces changes that make them more receptive to treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. While extremely high temperatures can directly destroy cancer cells, WBH is carefully controlled to avoid damage to healthy tissues. Dr. Adem Günes, Verita Life’s Medical Director and a recognized pioneer in hyperthermia, has developed safe, precise protocols to ensure that patients receive the maximum benefits of this treatment without unnecessary risks.
With advances in medical technology, WBH can now be applied with precision, making it effective for treating different types of cancer. Hyperthermia treatments can be administered locally, regionally, or to the entire body, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Local Hyperthermia:
In local hyperthermia, heat is applied to a small area, such as a tumor. Various forms of energy, like radio waves, microwaves, or ultrasound, are used to generate the necessary heat. Techniques like High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) are particularly effective, as they deliver highly concentrated ultrasound waves to the targeted area.
Regional Hyperthermia:
Regional hyperthermia heats larger areas, such as organs, body cavities, or limbs. It is often used alongside chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Common methods include isolated perfusion, continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion during surgery, and deep tissue hyperthermia.
Whole Body Hyperthermia:
Whole Body Hyperthermia raises the body’s core temperature using thermal chambers, hot water immersion, or heated blankets. The treatment is typically administered under anesthesia or sedation and activates immune cells for several hours, increasing the concentration of cancer-fighting compounds in the bloodstream.
Advantages of Hyperthermia
- Local hyperthermia offers a non-invasive, precise method for targeting tumors without surgery.
- Regional and whole-body hyperthermia amplify the effectiveness of other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Temperature control ensures that hyperthermia delivers its therapeutic benefits safely.
Potential Side Effects
- Local hyperthermia may cause discomfort and can sometimes lead to side effects like burns, infection, or bleeding at the application site.
- Regional and whole-body hyperthermia can result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Though rare, serious side effects may affect major organs, including the heart and blood vessels.
The Future of Whole Body Hyperthermia
While WBH is still considered an experimental treatment, ongoing research and advancements have led to fewer side effects and improved outcomes. The evolving field of hyperthermia shows promise for its wider incorporation into mainstream cancer care, offering patients a more comprehensive and effective way to address various forms of cancer.
At Verita Life, we are committed to providing cutting-edge, integrative cancer treatments that support patients in their fight against cancer. Whole Body Hyperthermia is a key part of our holistic approach, helping to stimulate the immune system, reduce cancer symptoms, and improve overall treatment efficacy.