For centuries, fever has been perceived as a symptom of an underlying illness that needs to be treated and managed. However, recent research has shown that fever has a role to play in the fight against cancer.

In fact, inducing fever in cancer patients has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and increase survival rates. In this article, we will explore the link between fever and cancer and how it can be harnessed to our advantage.

What is Fever?

Fever is a natural response of the body’s immune system to fight off infections and illnesses. It is characterized by an increase in body temperature above the normal range of 36.5 – 37.5 °C (97.7 – 99.5 °F).

The increase in body temperature is triggered by chemicals called pyrogens, which are produced by the body in response to an infection or inflammation. Pyrogens act on the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls body temperature, causing it to raise the body’s temperature set point.

The Link between Fever and Cancer

Cancer is a disease characterized by the presence of abnormal cells in the body that divide and grow uncontrollably.

These abnormal cells not only evade the body’s immune system, but some of them also produce substances that suppress the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off the cancer cells.

Research has shown that fever can help boost the body’s immune system by activating the white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and cancer cells.

Fever can also help reduce the number of cancer cells in the body by increasing the flow of blood to the tumor, making it easier for the body’s immune system to recognize and attack the cancer cells.

Fever and Cancer Treatment

Medical professionals have been exploring the use of fever in cancer treatment for many years. The concept of inducing fever in cancer patients is known as hyperthermia therapy.

Hyperthermia therapy works by increasing the temperature of the tumor to a level that is lethal to the cancer cells, while sparing the healthy surrounding tissue.

There are different ways to induce hyperthermia in cancer patients. One method involves using electromagnetic waves to heat up the tumor while another method involves perfusing the tumor with hot water or air.

Hyperthermia therapy has been shown to improve the effectiveness of other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy by making the cancer cells more susceptible to these treatments.

The Benefits of Fever in Cancer Treatment

Inducing fever in cancer patients has several benefits in the treatment of cancer. Some of these benefits include:.

Stimulating the Immune System

Fever triggers the immune system to produce more white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and cancer cells.

By increasing the number of white blood cells, fever helps the immune system to better recognize and attack the cancer cells.

Improving Treatment Outcomes

Hyperthermia therapy has been shown to improve the effectiveness of other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

By inducing fever, hyperthermia therapy increases the sensitivity of the cancer cells to these treatments, making them more effective at killing the cancer cells.

Inhibiting Tumor Growth

Fever can help reduce the number of cancer cells in the body by increasing the flow of blood to the tumor.

This increased blood flow makes it easier for the body’s immune system to recognize and attack the cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and spread.

Reducing the Risk of Metastasis

Metastasis is the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Fever has been shown to reduce the risk of metastasis by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells.

The Risks of Fever in Cancer Patients

While fever has several benefits in the treatment of cancer, it is important to note that inducing fever in cancer patients can also have risks and side effects. Some of these risks and side effects include:.

Dehydration

Fever can cause dehydration, especially in cancer patients who are already experiencing side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can lead to a host of other complications and must be managed carefully.

Damage to Healthy Cells

Inducing fever can also damage healthy cells in the body. It is important to carefully monitor the temperature of the patient and ensure that the heat is targeted only on the tumor to minimize damage to healthy tissue.

Cardiovascular Strain

Fever can put strain on the cardiovascular system, especially in cancer patients who already have compromised health. It is important to carefully monitor the patient’s vital signs and manage any complications that may arise.

Conclusion

Fever is a natural response of the body’s immune system to fight off infections and illnesses. Recent research has shown that fever can also play a role in the fight against cancer.

Inducing fever in cancer patients has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and increase survival rates. Hyperthermia therapy is a promising new approach to cancer treatment that aims to harness the power of fever to fight off cancer cells.

However, it is important to carefully monitor cancer patients who are undergoing hyperthermia therapy to manage any risks and side effects that may arise.