A 3-D RECONSTRUCTION ALGORITHM FOR INTERPOLATION AND EXTRAPOLATION OFPLANAR CROSS-SECTIONAL DATA

A three dimensional (3-D) reconstruction algorithm utilizing both line ar interpolation and linear extrapolation was developed for the study of human prostatic cancer. The algorithm was validated by comparing th e volumes and shapes of original to reconstructed objects. Synthetic o bjects of known geometry and wax models with shapes characteristic of prostatic carcinomas were assessed with standard planimetry and by the digital interpolation-extrapolation method. Volume and multifocality measurements obtained by reconstructing excised prostate glands using histologic maps obtained from whole-mount sections were tested. The ne w algorithm provided greater accuracy in determining tumor volumes tha n conventional methods. This model provides a basis for mathematical a nalysis of prostate cancer lesions.