Inhibition of experimental tumor growth in hamsters by small direct currents

Abstract

The effect of three electric current levels (3 mamp, 500 micronamp, and 960 mmicronamp) on the growth of A-Mel-4 tumor was evaluated in hamsters as a mode of therapy. Direct current (dc) was applied for one hour a day from the third to sixth posttumor implant day by the introduction of a shielded point electrode directly into the tumor site. Tumor growth was inhibited, and metastases were reduced in the exposed animals. The higher dl levels produced necrosis in the tumors, and in several animals, the implantation site tumor was completely destroyed. These effects were most pronounced with the positive electrode.