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Theranostics – treating advanced prostate cancer

Macquarie Medical Imaging Theranostics Service is a cancer therapy service using isotopes which are labelled with antibodies to specifically target certain types of cancer with a customised radiation dose.

The radioactive isotope (Lutetium 177) is linked to the PSMA targeting agent that is able to stick to the receptors of the prostate cancer cell. The beta radiation is then able to damage or destroy the prostate cancer cell.

Diagrom showing radioactive isotope, nanoscience link, targeting agent, cancer target and cancer cell

The theranostic service uses Lutetium-PSMA therapy, which in some cases reduces the tumour size and prevents them from multiplying.

This also alleviates the symptoms patients with prostate cancer are suffering with such as:

  • pain suppression
  • PSA (Prostate-specific antigen) suppression.

Lutetium 177 PSMA therapy can also have the following desired patient outcomes:

  • improved mobility
  • increase in energy level
  • generally feeling better/well
  • improved quality of life.

The process this type of therapy requires is well placed at Macquarie Medical Imaging due to the multi-disciplinary nature of the practice. The various medical imaging required for the workup and follow up of a therapy patient include PET-PSMA and MRI scans which can all be accommodated onsite and supported by the comprehensive facilities of Macquarie University hospital.

Recently Dr Adeola Ayoola has joined MMI as clinical lead in Theranostics. Dr Ayoola is a dual qualified, practicing oncologist and nuclear medicine physician with a keen interest in Theranostics and research. MMI has had over 350 successful infusions of Lutetium177-PSMA therapy.

With Dr Ayoola on board MMI is one of the most experienced and unique facilities for theranostic treatments and research.