PSMA Therapy, or Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Therapy, is a targeted treatment primarily used for prostate cancer. This therapy utilizes radioactive substances that attach to PSMA, a protein found on the surface of prostate cancer cells. By binding to these cells, the radioactive material delivers radiation directly to the tumor. One key benefit of PSMA Therapy is that it helps reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissue, which is important for minimizing side effects. Doctors often recommend this treatment for patients whose prostate cancer has spread beyond the prostate or has not responded to other treatments. Before starting PSMA Therapy, patients undergo imaging tests to confirm that the cancer cells express PSMA, helping determine if they are suitable candidates. The procedure is usually performed in a specialized clinic, and patients may receive the therapy through an intravenous (IV) line. Most patients tolerate PSMA Therapy well, though some may experience mild side effects such as fatigue or nausea. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and make adjustments if needed. Overall, PSMA Therapy offers hope for improved outcomes in prostate cancer treatment.
Before discussing PSMA therapy, it's essential to understand the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer, which may include:
Difficulty urinating or changes in urinary habits
Painful urination
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Note: Many men with prostate cancer may not experience symptoms, especially in the early stages.
The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk:
Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
Family History: Having a family history of prostate cancer can raise the chance of developing it.
Race: African American men face a higher risk compared to other racial groups.
Genetic Factors: Certain inherited gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) can raise the risk.
Hormones: Male hormones (androgens) might play a role in prostate cancer growth.
Men should see a doctor if they experience:
Persistent urinary issues
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Unexplained weight loss
Any new symptoms related to prostate health
Regular check-ups and conversations about prostate health are especially important for those at higher risk.
To diagnose prostate cancer, doctors may perform:
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor checks the prostate for abnormalities.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures PSA levels, which may be elevated in the presence of cancer.
Biopsy: Tissue samples from the prostate are taken for examination.
Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans help visualize the prostate and detect any spread of cancer.
Do's:
Follow Medical Advice: Follow your doctor's pre- and post-treatment care recommendations.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate the radioactive substance.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat nutritious foods to support your overall health during treatment.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups help track your response to therapy.
Inform Your Doctor of Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms or side effects.
Don'ts:
Don't Ignore Symptoms: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe side effects or symptoms.
Avoid Close Contact with Pregnant Women or Children: Due to radiation, it's best to limit contact for a short period after treatment.
Don't Skip Appointments: Regular monitoring is essential for managing your health.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: These can negatively impact overall health and the effectiveness of treatment.
Disclaimer:
Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's essential to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:
National Cancer Institute | Improved Survival in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Cleveland Clinic | PSMA-Targeted Therapy: How It Works, Process, Benefits & Side Effects
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