Description
Why It’s Done
The F-18 PSMA PET CT Scan is mainly used for the following purposes:
• Initial staging of high-risk prostate cancer to assess for metastasis
• Detection of recurrence in patients with rising PSA levels after prostatectomy or radiation therapy
• Guiding treatment decisions, such as suitability for surgery, radiotherapy, or systemic therapy
• Evaluating suspected metastatic disease
• Assessing response to treatment
Compared to traditional imaging, PSMA PET CT offers superior accuracy in identifying even small lymph node or bone metastases, making it a preferred tool in the modern management of prostate cancer.
Preparation
To ensure accurate results, please follow these preparation instructions:
1. Fasting:
• No fasting is usually required, but some centers may ask for 4 hours of fasting prior to the scan. Please follow your provider’s specific instructions.
• Water is usually allowed and encouraged.
2. Medications:
• You may continue your regular medications unless instructed otherwise by your physician.
• Bring a list of all current medications with you.
3. Hydration:
• Drink plenty of water before and after the scan to help eliminate the tracer from your body.
4. Avoid Certain Activities:
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the scan, as physical exertion can alter tracer distribution.
• Stay calm and relaxed before the scan.
5. Clothing and Personal Items:
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes free of metal (e.g., no zippers, snaps, belts, or jewelry).
• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
6. Inform Your Doctor If:
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or think you may be pregnant.
• You have any allergies, especially to previous contrast agents or radiotracers (though F-18 PSMA typically has a low allergic profile).
7. After the Scan:
• You can resume normal activities unless otherwise instructed.
• Drink extra fluids to flush out the radiotracer through your urine
