Dosimetry Modeling: Approaches and Issues

Abstract

In this article, mathematical modeling is defined as the use of the physical laws of mass, heat, and momentum conservation to quantify the dynamics of a system of interest. When modeling is used to assess nasal dosimetry, additional information on the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the nose and the inhaled xenobiotic substances is required. Each model incorporates a number of simplifying assumptions that determine its individual character. The simpler is the model, the less information is required for its implementation, but also the more restricted is the final formulation. In striking a reasonable balance between simplicity and utility, a modeler must consider both the ultimate application of the model and the availability of experimental measurements required for its validation. This article discusses these issues and presents seven illustrative examples demonstrating progress in this field over the past 35 years.