Math meets the Clinic: Modeling Patient Specific HNSCC Radiation Response Dynamics

Authors

Rohan Vijayvikram, University of DundeeFollow
Pirmin Schlicke, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Mohammad U. Zahid, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Dina M. El-Habashy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Cem Dede, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Clifton D. Fuller, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Heiko Enderling, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow

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Description

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) originate from the mucosal lining of the upper aerodigestive tract and radiation therapy has become a fundamental component in the standard care for these patients. However, the treatment's unique dynamics can lead to disparities in outcomes and biological responses in both tumor and normal tissues. A significant challenge remains in predicting individual patient responses to radiation, with variability often resulting in under or over-treatment and potentially adverse effects. The absence of reliable biomarkers highlights the need for predictive measures to guide clinical decisions in real-time. The integration of mathematical models in radiation therapy offers a promising solution, with models incorporating a global lambda demonstrating the ability to predict treatment responses beyond initial weeks. These models provide a framework to address patient response variability, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

Program Affiliation

Radiation Oncology Summer Experience Program

DOI

https://doi.org/10.52519/00145

Publication Date

Summer 8-1-2024

Keywords

Digital Twin, Quantitative Personalized Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Mathematical Modeling in Radiation Oncology

Recommended Citation

Vijayvikram, Rohan; Schlicke, Pirmin; Zahid, Mohammad U.; El-Habashy, Dina M.; Dede, Cem; Fuller, Clifton D.; and Enderling, Heiko, "Math meets the Clinic: Modeling Patient Specific HNSCC Radiation Response Dynamics" (2024). Radiation Oncology Medical Student Program. 5.
doi:https://doi.org/10.52519/00145