Biological effects and equivalent doses in radiotherapy: A software solution

Rep Pract Oncol Radiother. 2013 Sep 29;19(1):47-55. doi: 10.1016/j.rpor.2013.08.004. eCollection 2014 Jan.

Abstract

Background: The limits of TDF (time, dose, and fractionation) and linear quadratic models have been known for a long time. Medical physicists and physicians are required to provide fast and reliable interpretations regarding delivered doses or any future prescriptions relating to treatment changes.

Aim: We, therefore, propose a calculation interface under the GNU license to be used for equivalent doses, biological doses, and normal tumor complication probability (Lyman model).

Materials and methods: THE METHODOLOGY USED DRAWS FROM SEVERAL SOURCES: the linear-quadratic-linear model of Astrahan, the repopulation effects of Dale, and the prediction of multi-fractionated treatments of Thames.

Results and conclusions: The results are obtained from an algorithm that minimizes an ad-hoc cost function, and then compared to an equivalent dose computed using standard calculators in seven French radiotherapy centers.

Keywords: Fractionation; Linear quadratic; Radiobiology; Repopulation; Time effect.