A stochastic model for high-LET response for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT)

There is evidence showing that there is a significant variation in tumor-boron and blood-boron concentrations for individual patients. There also is a wide variation in the size and location of the tumor. This diversity creates a situation in which treatment must be carefully tailored to the specific needs of each patient. A stochastic model is required for the 10B(n,α)7Li effect. The application of such a model requires a microscopic biological-response function. Research and experience will be required before the models and response functions can be precisely quantified, but useful qualitative information on basic trends can be determined from simple models and trial response functions. This paper describes a proposed model based on the lineal response, which is very applicable to BNCT. The model is not limited to single-event response, but only requires the applicability of a response function which is independent of other events. Experiments support such a model for the 10B(n,α)7Li reaction. This paper describes the model, provides details for basic charged-particle information and simulation methods, and provides a simple demonstration of the model's important by evaluating the endothelium tolerance to BNCT