For this purpose, a minimal amount of a radioactive substance with a short half-life is introduced into the bloodstream – by a single injection. The abbreviation PSMA stands for “prostate specific membrane antigen”, and in a PSMA scan the radioactive substance binds to the cells with this antigen, which is present both in healthy prostate cells and in prostate cancer cells (there in over 95% of the cells), but not exclusively there.
You will need: Referral (with a detailed question), previous images/reports.
The examinations consist of three phases: In the preparatory phase, the radioactive substance is prepared specifically for each patient and then administered (mostly intravenously). The technical phase includes the performance of scintigraphy, SPECT or PET measurement, including image evaluation. The information phase (specialist diagnosis) concludes the procedure.
You receive a minimal amount of a radioactive substance (radiopharmaceutical) with a short half-life. After 20 -240 minutes, this is sufficiently enriched in the target organ and the examination can be performed.
These examinations are provided by the nuclear medicine practice. These examinations are to be paid privately and can be submitted to supplementary/private insurance.
