Application of a stochastic model to response assessments in a study of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

This paper discusses the application of a stochastic model in the analysis of response assessments made at various time points in a clinical trial of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The transition rates and probabilities during treatment administration are derived using maximum likelihood methods. The results are then compared with the standard analyses used in solid tumour studies. Stochastic modelling is considered to complement the standard analyses, provide a holistic approach and better explain the underlying disease process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.