[Practical application of logistic function to the growth of experimental tumors]

The properties of the logistic law of growth (Verhulst-Pearl) and a simple method for computing of statistical approximation are described. Two parameters are estimated: the generation rate c and the mortality rate c0, although the real biological processes are of greater complexity. The logistic law is modified by an additional term concerning the prefinal decline in the last life span. To prove the curve fitting to tumour growth by the modified logistic function the total number of Ehrlich ascites tumour cells was measured in 144 mice at 12 different times after inoculation. The accuracy of the curve fitting proved to be very good. Therefore the logistic function modified by an additional term for the final stages, is particularly suited for the characterization of Ehrlich ascites tumour growth and its changes.