Targeted Therapy with Lutetium-177 PSMA for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy is a targeted radiopharmaceutical treatment for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) whose lesions demonstrate PSMA expression on PSMA PET/CT imaging. The suitability of this treatment is assessed individually by physicians based on prior treatments, clinical symptoms, and relevant investigation results.
What is Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy?
Lutetium-177 PSMA is a targeted radioligand therapy that uses the radioactive isotope Lu-177 linked to a molecule that binds to prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a protein commonly found on the surface of certain prostate cancer cells. After intravenous administration, the compound binds to PSMA-expressing lesions and emits beta radiation, which helps destroy cancer cells and some nearby cells. This allows for more specific disease control compared with non-targeted therapies and generally results in fewer side effects.
Treatment Process
- Pre-treatment assessment
Before treatment, physicians will evaluate suitability. This typically includes:
- PSMA PET/CT to confirm PSMA-expressing lesions
- Blood tests such as complete blood count, kidney function, liver function, and PSA level
- In some patients, additional tests such as a renal scan or other investigations may be performed at the physician’s discretion
- On the day of treatment
The patient will receive Lu-177 PSMA intravenously under the supervision of a nuclear medicine specialist. Hydration will be provided and the patient will be monitored after administration. Instructions regarding food, medications, and preparation on the treatment day may vary depending on hospital protocols. - After treatment
After therapy, patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids and urinate frequently as recommended. This helps reduce radiation retention in the bladder and facilitates elimination of the radiopharmaceutical from the body. Treatment is typically repeated every 6 weeks, with up to 6 cycles depending on disease response, blood results, kidney function, and physician discretion.
Important Note
This information is provided for general patient education. Treatment decisions and post-treatment recommendations depend on the treating physician’s judgment and the protocols of the hospital providing care.