Advances in imaging have transformed how prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated. One of the most important innovations is PSMA PET imaging, a highly sensitive scan that allows physicians to see prostate cancer with greater accuracy than ever before. At Coastal Cancer Center, PSMA PET imaging plays a critical role in helping her physicians deliver precise, personalized treatment for patients with prostate cancer.

What Is PSMA PET Imaging?

Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) involves the infusion through a vein of a protein-targeted radiotracer that primarily localizes to cells expressing PSMA. PSMA is a protein found in high amounts on prostate cancer cells. The radiotracer emits small amounts of radiation over a relatively short period of time, identifying areas that are likely to be involved by prostate cancer. Using specialized detectors that can identify where the radiation is coming from and in combination with a CT scan obtained during the procedure, a highly detailed image is created that can be interpreted by your care team.

Compared to traditional imaging such as CT scans or bone scans, PSMA PET imaging can detect disease earlier and with greater precision.

Why It Matters for Radiation Therapy

The success of radiation therapy is highly dependent upon knowing exactly where cancer is located. PSMA PET imaging gives physicians a clearer map of the disease, which improves both planning and treatment.

More accurate detection

PSMA PET imaging can reveal cancer in lymph nodes, bones, or other tissues that may not be visible on standard imaging. This allows doctors to better understand the true extent of disease.

More precise targeting

With clearer images, radiation can be directed only where it is needed. The PSMA PET images are combined with treatment planning images to more clearly target lesions, potentially sparing more normal tissue while accurately treating the cancerous cells.

Personalized treatment planning

No two prostate cancers are the same. PSMA PET imaging helps determine whether cancer is confined to the prostate, has spread locally, or has traveled to distant sites. This information allows radiation oncologists to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s specific situation.

Better monitoring and decision making

PSMA PET scans can be used to evaluate how cancer responds to treatment and to guide next steps if additional therapy is needed.

How PSMA PET Improves Patient Care

Seeing cancer more clearly allows physicians to make more confident treatment decisions. This can lead to:

• More effective radiation therapy
• Reduced risk of missing small areas of disease
• Lower exposure of healthy tissue to radiation
• Improved long-term disease control

For patients, this means care that is not only advanced but also more thoughtful and individualized.

PSMA PET Imaging at Coastal Cancer Center

At Coastal Cancer Center Radiation Oncology, advanced imaging is integrated into modern radiation planning when clinically appropriate. Our team continually evaluates emerging technologies that improve accuracy and patient outcomes, with PSMA PET imaging available at select Coastal Cancer Center locations.

Under the care of our physicians, patients benefit from a combination of:

• State-of-the-art radiation technology
• Advanced imaging tools such as PSMA PET
• A team-based approach focused on precision and compassion

 

Is PSMA PET Right for You?

PSMA PET imaging may be recommended based on your diagnosis, PSA levels, prior imaging results, or treatment goals. Your physician will determine whether this scan can provide useful information for your care plan.

Every patient’s journey is different, and imaging decisions are made with your specific needs in mind.

Moving Forward With Confidence

PSMA PET imaging represents an important step forward in prostate cancer care. By helping physicians see cancer more clearly, it supports smarter treatment planning and more personalized therapy.

At Coastal Cancer Center Radiation Oncology, our mission is to combine innovation with experience to deliver the highest level of cancer care for our community.

If you have questions about PSMA PET imaging or radiation therapy for prostate cancer, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.