PET-CT PSMA: the investigation that helps detect prostate cancer recurrence

In prostate cancer, knowing the exact location of the disease can change the physician's decision regarding the appropriate treatment. Modern diagnostic methods no longer identify diseased tissue solely by its appearance, but also by its biological characteristics.

One such investigation is PET-CT PSMA, which uses a radioactive substance (radiotracer) that binds to PSMA – a protein found in large quantities on the surface of many prostate cancer cells. The PET component of the investigation highlights the areas where this tracer accumulates, whilst the CT scan provides the precise location of these areas. In this way, tumour foci can be detected in the prostate, lymph nodes, bones, or other organs.

This investigation is used to determine the stage of the disease and becomes particularly useful when PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels begin to rise following prior treatment, a sign that may indicate a recurrence of the disease. The results obtained can help physicians choose the most appropriate strategy – whether radiotherapy, surgical intervention, systemic treatment, or, in advanced cases, targeted therapies directed at the same PSMA protein.