Advanced Imaging scans provide detailed views of the prostate and surrounding tissues and are an important part of modern prostate cancer diagnosis and staging. Advanced Imaging helps plan precise treatment and may reduce the need for more invasive procedures when results are clear and low risk.
Prostate Cancer Center of Excellence offers:
PSMA PET/CT: PSMA PET/CT combines a PET scan with a CT scan to produce very detailed images of prostate cancer cells anywhere in the body. PSMA stands for prostate-specific membrane antigen, a protein found in higher amounts on prostate cancer cells.
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How it works:
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A small amount of
radiotracer is injected into the vein.
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The tracer binds to
PSMA proteins on prostate cancer cells “lighting up” areas where cancer is
present.
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The PET and CT images
are combined into a 3D picture that shows exactly where cancer may be located,
inside and outside the prostate.
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PSMA PET/CT is more
precise than traditional imaging like MRI or CT alone, especially when looking
for cancer that has moved beyond the prostate or has recurred.
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Benefits of PSMA
PET/CT include:
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Early, precise
detection of prostate cancer cells
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Ability to show
whether cancer is localized or spread
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Better planning for
treatment
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Potential to avoid
unnecessary biopsies when imaging is clear