Extracorporeal whole body hyperthermia treatments for HIV infection and AIDS

Abstract

Whole body hyperthermia therapy (WBHT) is the elevation of the core body temperature to 42 degrees C. In vitro studies have confirmed that 42 degrees C is cytocidal for virally infected lymphocytes, and even more effective when heating is repeated 4 days later. The safety and efficacy of two successive sessions of WBHT (4 days apart) was evaluated in 30 patients with AIDS (not on protease inhibitors), randomized to: 1) untreated controls, 2) low temperature WBHT for 1 hour at 40 degrees C and repeated 96 hours later, and 3) high temperature WBHT for 1 hour at 42 degrees C and repeated 96 hours later. The sorbent suspension in the ThermoChem System (HemoCleanse, West Lafayette, IN) system automatically controlled blood phosphate, calcium, and other electrolyte concentrations during WBHT. In 1 year of follow-up after WBHT, there were positive effects of the therapy on frequency of AIDS defining events, Karnofsky score, and weight maintenance. However, effects on plasma HIV RNA and CD4 counts were transient. Two successive WBHT treatments were performed in four patients who were on protease inhibitor/triple drug therapy, but had suboptimal response. In follow-up for 6 months, plasma HIV RNA and CD4 improved after WBHT, and the patients remained clinically well. This WBHT may have specific advantages in patients with suboptimal response to protease inhibitor therapy.