Targeted radionuclide therapy · Advanced prostate cancer
Lutetium-PSMA (Lu-177 PSMA) is a targeted treatment that seeks out prostate cancer cells throughout the body and delivers radiation directly to them. Dr Omar Din, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, assesses suitability and facilitates this therapy at GenesisCare Guildford.
The therapy
Lutetium-PSMA is a radioactive medicine, known as Lu-177 PSMA, given by an injection into a vein. It is designed to find prostate cancer cells rather than treat the whole body indiscriminately.
Most prostate cancer cells carry a protein on their surface called PSMA. The medicine is built to attach to PSMA, so it seeks out cancer cells wherever they are in the body and delivers a small, targeted dose of radiation directly to them, largely sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
It is one of several options for advanced prostate cancer. You can read more about radiotherapy and other treatments Dr Din offers, and see where Dr Din consults.
Suitability
Lutetium-PSMA is considered for specific situations. Suitability depends on a PSMA-PET scan and your previous treatment, and Dr Din will advise whether it is right for you.
Your cancer shows the PSMA protein on a PSMA-PET scan, which confirms the treatment can find and target the cells.
Advanced or metastatic prostate cancer that has progressed despite hormone therapy and chemotherapy.
Men seeking further disease control and relief of symptoms when other treatments have been exhausted.
Your care pathway
Dr Omar Din facilitates Lutetium-PSMA therapy at GenesisCare Guildford in Surrey. Here is how a typical course of treatment is organised.
A review of your history and a PSMA-PET scan to confirm your cancer is PSMA-positive.
Dr Din talks through whether the therapy is appropriate for you, what it involves and any questions you have.
The medicine is given as a course of injections into a vein, spaced a few weeks apart.
Your response is monitored between treatments and at follow-up, so care can be adjusted as needed.
You will be given clear guidance on simple precautions to follow at home for a short period after each treatment.
GenesisCare Guildford, Surrey — where Dr Omar Din facilitates Lutetium-PSMA therapy.
Common questions
Suitability depends on a PSMA-PET scan confirming your cancer is PSMA-positive and on your previous treatment. Dr Din will assess your situation and advise whether it is the right option for you.
Lutetium-PSMA is given as a course of injections spaced a few weeks apart. The exact number depends on your response and how you tolerate treatment, which Dr Din will discuss with you.
In general terms, possible side effects can include tiredness, a dry mouth and effects on blood counts. These are general points only — Dr Din will talk through what to expect in your particular case before treatment begins.
A referral from your GP or consultant is usual and helps share your history. Self-referrals are also welcome — get in touch and the practice will guide you through the next steps.
Get in touch
Send an enquiry about Lutetium-PSMA therapy using the form, or call the practice and the team will help you take the next step.