ABSTRACT
Hyperthermia is not a new treatment technique of malignant tumors. As early as 1893 Coley observed some tumor regression using pyogenic toxins. However, it was in 1960 when hyperthermia was used with a clear objective and quantitative approach based on accurate thermometry and improved heat delivery techniques. At present a total of 10000 patients have been treated throughout the world. These trials have shown so-called ‘encouraging’ results. As has been done for ionizing radiation, cell culture techniques can be used to determine cell survival curves following hyperthermia. These experiments have shown that temperatures of more than 41°C are able to kill mammalian cells. Hyperthermia may be delivered in different ways. Namely, whole body hyperthermia, regional hyperthermia (limb perfusion of heated blood) and localized hyperthermia can be performed. Thermometry is a very important issue in thermotherapy. So far no ideal method has been reported to assess the thermal distribution in normal tissues and tumors.
