The effect of dimethysulphoxide (DMSO) on heat distribution during radiofrequency (RF) capacitive heating

Abstract

The interest in hyperthermia induced by radiofrequency (Le Veen et al, 1976), ultrasonics (Erikson et al, 1974) and microwaves (Cheung et al, 1981) as a treatment for cancer has resulted in numerous techniques for heat administration (Christensen & Durney, 1981). Among the problems faced by research workers and engineers are: reduction of surface temperature (Christensen & Durney, 1981); accurate localisation of heat at desired depths with homogeneous temperature elevation of given tumour (Bowman, 1981); and undesired heating at fat muscle interface (Sugaar & Le Veen, 1979). The therapeutic range is narrow. Above 45°C, heat damages normal and neoplastic cells. Between 37 and 40°C, heat enhances cell growth, possibly enhancing tumour growth (Samaras et al, 1981). In connection with RF heating, DMSO was reported to be effective in changing the electrical property of the skin resulting in reduction of heat deposition at the surface with more effective deposition below it (Turco & Canada, 1969).