Hyperthermia in rheumatic diseases. A promising approach?

Hyperthermia is a method applied in the treatment of many diseases, including rheumatic diseases. There are relatively few reports concerning the role of that method in the treatment of these diseases, and most studies have not been randomised. Hyperthermia includes directed application of thermal energy. The aim of that therapy is to overcome the body’s natural thermoregulation mechanism through application of external heat sources such as electromagnetic radiation of various frequencies, or ultrasound. Usually, temperatures are used within the 38.5–43° range. Hyperthermia can be applied as topical, regional, or systemic treatment (the latter is called hyperthermia of the whole body). In rheumatology, mainly the effect of hyperthermia on the immune system of the body is used. That effect depends on the type of hyperthermia and temperatures applied. Best documented are the effects of hyperthermia in fibromyalgia and ankylosing spondylitis.