Whole-body hyperthermia raises the core body temperature in a controlled medical setting to activate the immune system, damage cancer cells systemically, and combat persistent infections throughout the body.
Whole-body hyperthermia (WBH) is a systemic treatment that elevates the patient’s core body temperature to between 38.5 and 42 degrees Celsius, depending on the protocol. This simulates a natural fever response, which is the body’s own mechanism for fighting disease.
The treatment activates immune cells, increases circulation, and creates conditions that are hostile to cancer cells and pathogens. It is one of the most powerful immunological tools available at St. George Hospital.
The patient lies in a specialized hyperthermia system that uses water-filtered infrared radiation to gradually raise body temperature. The entire process is monitored continuously by medical staff, with real-time tracking of core temperature, heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure.
Mild WBH (38.5-40C) is used for immune activation, while moderate WBH (40-42C) provides more intensive anti-tumor and anti-infective effects. The elevated temperature directly damages heat-sensitive cancer cells and pathogens while stimulating natural killer cells and heat shock protein production.
The suitability of any therapy depends on your individual diagnosis. Our physicians will recommend specific treatments only after a thorough assessment.
A whole-body hyperthermia session typically lasts 4-6 hours, including preparation, the heating phase, the plateau phase at target temperature, and a supervised cool-down period. Patients are monitored throughout by a dedicated medical team. Most patients describe the experience as similar to having a fever. A rest period follows the treatment. Sessions are typically scheduled several times during a treatment program.
Whole-body hyperthermia has been studied in numerous clinical trials, particularly in oncology. Research published in journals such as the International Journal of Hyperthermia demonstrates improved treatment outcomes when WBH is combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy. St. George Hospital has been using WBH for over 30 years and has contributed extensively to the published literature on this therapy.
Contact our medical team to discuss whether this therapy may be appropriate for your condition.
