What is Lutetium PSMA Therapy?

PSMA (Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen) treatment with lutetium-177 is a type of radionuclide therapy used to kill prostate cancer cells that have migrated to other regions of the body, such as lymph nodes and bones. The eradication of prostate cancer cells may extend life expectancy and ease symptoms such as bone discomfort, which are commonly associated with cancer deposits in the skeleton.

When is Lutetium PSMA Therapy required?

Currently, Lutetium-177 PSMA is used in patients with metastatic prostate cancer who have failed other forms of treatment such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy. Before commencing treatment, patients will need to undergo a PSMA PET-CT scan to confirm PSMA receptors on the cancer cells, which will be targeted by Lutetium-177 PSMA.

How is Lutetium PSMA Therapy done?

Lutetium-177 PSMA is administered by injection into the bloodstream every 6-8 weeks. An intravenous line is established on the day of therapy, and the Lutetium-177 PSMA is infused over 30 minutes.

Antiemetics and a diuretic (to promote urine clearance) are also given at the same time. After 24-72 hours, a SPECT scan is performed to check that disease areas have been effectively targeted. The majority of individuals require four therapy cycles.

A repeat PSMA PET-CT is conducted after two cycles to assess the therapy response. If the PSA levels have lowered and a repeat PSMA scan shows a good response, a further two cycles will be given to complete the full treatment course of four cycles.

What Results Can I Expect from Lutetium PSMA Therapy?

Around 60-70 percent of patients who receive the treatment will have a positive reaction (e.g., symptom relief), and in some cases, it may result in a reasonably long-term illness remission. It is also possible to extend one’s life expectancy.