A physical-based model for the simulation of neoplastic growth and metastasis

Background and Objectives: It is possible to formulate models capable of re producing the main details of the physical processes involved in the evolut ion of biological systems. The complexity of the problem requires to begin with a simple and universal model for the description of the cellular growt h, to be adapted successively to the local conditions found in clinically o bserved neoplastic growths. Methods: A model based on the Local Interaction Simulation Approach (LISA) has been formulated for the simulation of growth, diffusion, and metastasis of neoplasms. The vascularization is described by a blood vessel located o n one edge of the specimen in which a constant and homogeneous flow is assu med. A nutrient density is defined to mimic the blood flow within the tissu e. Results: Photograms taken at proper times may identify the main characteris tics of the tumor evolution and describe its volume variations in a transve rsal section. Furthermore, it is possible to monitor constantly the volume of the neoplasm and of the necrotic tissue as a function of time, as well a s the portion of cells that have migrated in the blood vessel. Conclusions: In spite of strong simplifying assumptions, the model presents good qualitative agreement with clinical data, which may be further improv ed by more detailed information about cancer cells properties or local vasc ular system patterns. J. Surg. Oncol. 2000;74:122-129. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.