Immune system-tumour efficiency ratio as a new oncological index for radiotherapy treatment optimization

Abstract

A dynamical system model for tumour-immune system interaction together with a method to mimic radiation therapy are proposed. A large population of virtual patients is simulated following an ideal radiation treatment. A characteristic parameter, the immune system-tumor efficiency ratio (ISTER) is introduced. ISTER dependence of treatment success and other features are studied. Radiotherapy treatment dose optimization, following ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) criterion, as well as a patient classification are drawn from the statistics results.