Complete solution of the three-compartment model in steady state after single injection of radioactive tracer

Abstract

Solutions of a general, three-compartment model in a nonisotopic steady state are developed. By means of these solutions, the investigator may analyze a great variety of kinetic flow relationships utilizing only algebraic procedures. Values of compartment sizes, rates of transport and specific activity-time curves are obtained for three typical hypothetical examples. Possible degrees of freedom and the use of parameters are examined. For those models where physical limitations prevent sufficient independent observations to allow completely determinate solutions, possible limiting values are established.