A Markov model for analyzing the evolution of bladder carcinoma

A Markovian approach to analyze different states of the superficial vesical carcinoma is considered, taking into account up to two recurrences and the possibility of progression. So, three transient states are considered: free of disease, first, and second recurrence; and an absorbent state, the pro...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inMathematical and computer modelling Vol. 50; no. 5; pp. 726 - 732
Main Authors Santamaría, Cristina, García-Mora, Belén, Rubio, Gregorio, Navarro, Enrique
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2009
Subjects
Bladder carcinoma
Markov process
Matlab
Phase-type distribution
Survival function
Transition intensity
Markov process
Phase-type distribution
Transition intensity
Survival function
Bladder carcinoma
Matlab
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Summary:A Markovian approach to analyze different states of the superficial vesical carcinoma is considered, taking into account up to two recurrences and the possibility of progression. So, three transient states are considered: free of disease, first, and second recurrence; and an absorbent state, the progression. A methodology based in phase-type distributions is also used, that allows the usual quantities of interest in survival studies to be expressed in a well-structured form. This type of distribution has shown its utility in queue theory, and has the advantage that mathematical expressions can be presented in a closed form that allows algebraic treatment.
ISSN:0895-7177
1872-9479
DOI:10.1016/j.mcm.2008.12.019