In a recent study, a student from the University of Waterloo outlined a mathematical model. The model aims at improving radiation therapy used to treat brain tumors. It optimizes radiation use to ensure it kills maximum tumor cells in the limited administrations that can happen. This leads to irradiation that is point-specific and more effective than the method currently in use.
How it works?
In order to make use of this model, it is important to identify high density areas. It is then differentiated against the rest of the spatial distribution of tumor cells. Researchers propose taking of images twice in order to identify it. Basis of the information, one can ascertain the dose and treatment. The physical limitations of radiation can also be figured out this way. The model can thus be used to help in optimizing the radiation fraction.
As per Maron Meaney, a PhD candidate at the University, a better grasp of cell density in a tumor is the way to go forward. It is mainly because that would help in designing a treatment with much better outcomes than those achieved now.
How was the model developed?
Researchers placed a cap on a number of administrations for the entire treatment and then divided the brain into areas based on tumor cell density. They then determined radiation dose and strength for these areas. In some cases, the let the model determine the same. They observed that in many cases, an even distribution of radiation was not required. If a rather high density area is found, high-strength administration can be applied in more precise space.
The growth model created using the images used here to create a replica of the development of malicious cells. The information will help oncologists use the derived profile to understand cases better and administer more precise administrations.
