thermoradiotherapy

Thermoradiotherapy, also known as hyperthermia and radiotherapy, is a cancer treatment that combines heat therapy with radiation therapy. The goal of this combined approach is to enhance the effectiveness of radiation in killing cancer cells. Hyperthermia involves raising the temperature of tumor tissue to approximately 40-44 degrees Celsius. This elevated temperature can make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation damage, and it can also impair the ability of cells to repair themselves after radiation exposure. Furthermore, heat can reduce the oxygen supply to tumors, which can also make them more susceptible to radiation.

The application of hyperthermia can be achieved through various methods, including external applicators, interstitial heating, or regional heating of a specific body part. The heat is typically delivered using microwave or ultrasound devices. Thermoradiotherapy is often considered for certain types of cancers, such as head and neck cancers, cervical cancer, and soft tissue sarcomas, where it has shown promise in improving local tumor control and survival rates. However, the treatment can also cause side effects, including skin irritation, burns, and pain, which are managed by the medical team. The precise role and optimal use of thermoradiotherapy are still areas of ongoing research and clinical investigation.