Analysis of the evolution of esophageal tumor volume in radiotherapy process using a mathematical model / 生物医学工程学杂志

ABSTRACT

The volume change of tumor during radiotherapy processes indirectly reflects the short-term efficacy and the quality of radiotherapy planning. We analyzed clinical data of radiotherapy using a mathematical model in our study. First, we selected eight esophageal carcinoma patients with only using 3DRT and conventional dose fractionation schemes. And then we observed and measured the change of tumor volume during the radiotherapy. Based on the LQ model, repopulation and re-oxygenation in 4Rs, and the kinetics of doomed tumor disintegration, we established the mathematical model of tumor evolution in radiotherapy. And then we used the model to analyze the clinical trial data about esophageal carcinoma with radiotherapy. It was proved that the results of the model almost coincided with the clinical trial data. According to the analysis results, we could get the related radiobiology parameters to estimate biological effective dose and repopulation of patients. The mathematical model could provide reference for assessment of prognosis and further scheme of treatment.