Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths worldwide. While there are effective hormonal and chemotherapy based treatments available, there will be eventual disease progression, and further therapies will be needed to treat disease related symptoms, improve quality of life and extend survival.
PSMA therapy is a novel form of treatment using a small particle that targets the prostate cancer cell. By labelling the PSMA molecule with radioactive materials, it is possible to target the cancer cells with radiation, while relatively sparing normal tissue.
In published medical literature, there are reports of good biochemical response rates, with an estimated 50-70% of treated patients have a more than 50% drop in PSA levels. Overall toxicities to the treatment have been low grade, with the more common side effects being fatigue, drop in blood counts and decreased salivary production.
It can be done in an outpatient basis, without need for hospitalization, and involves a simple infusion though a peripheral intravenous line. No dietary restrictions are required, and only simple radiation precautions following treatment is needed.