PSMA PET CT Scan: Detecting and Staging Prostate Cancer Explained
Prostate cancer in males begins in the gland cells of the prostate. A PSMA PET scan is used by doctors to find out prostate cancer. A radioactive tracer is used for this scan which targets a protein called PSMA, or prostate-specific membrane antigen, that is heavily expressed on PC cells. The PET CT scan detects the radiotracer, allowing for pinpointing the tumours for more effective treatment. The images of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues offered by the scan are highly detailed.
These scans show high level of sensitivity in finding out prostate cancer lesions, even at low concentrations. They allow finding out the exact location and size of tumours along with the information whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. They are also a promising method in staging prostate cancer, which allows doctors to select the best treatment options. PSMA PET-CT also monitors the effectiveness of prostate cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. They are also used to find out the recurrence of prostate cancer after initial treatment.
If you live in Delhi-NCR, you can do an online search to find out the PSMA PET scan cost.
The process involves administering two injections into a vein in the patient's arm. The first injection involves injecting a radioactive substance, which circulates throughout the patient's system for nearly 70-80 minutes before the actual scan can take place. Following this, a diuretic is injected, which promotes frequent urination during the waiting period. Once the waiting period concludes, the patient needs to go into the scanning room. During the scan, patients are required to lie still and breathe normally. The imaging process typically lasts for 20-40 minutes. Upon completion of the PSMA PET CT Scan, the technologist escorts the patient out, and they can return home.
