Irving, TX, March19, 2017 – Men who are suspected to have prostate cancer may soon find their doctors ordering a minimally invasive PET scan to confirm or deny their suspicions. A relatively new advancement in this diagnostic procedure is paving the way for more accurate diagnosis of this condition.

The advancement in question involves the use of a new radioactive tracer called gallium-68. This tracer works by attaching itself to prostate cancer cells, essentially illuminating them in PET scans. The tracer is able to help doctors detect prostate cancer at its earliest stages and also has been found effective for revealing more advanced stages. The hope is that it may pave the way for better staging and determination of tumor aggressiveness down the road. In turn, this information may help doctors more readily create patient-specific treatment plans.

“Although still under study, the tracer has shown very positive results so far,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder of PET/CT of Las Colinas. “If it holds up to further scrutiny, it may pave the way for more rapid and accurate diagnosis and staging, which could improve the chances for positive outcomes.”

It is estimated that some 160,000 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the coming year. About 26,000 men will die from this cause.

“Being able to more readily understand the nature of a patient’s tumor before planning out treatments may help improve the odds in a man’s favor,” says Dr. Echt. “This test may provide crucial information needed to increase the likelihood of positive outcomes.”

All men are at risk for prostate cancer as they age. With that in mind, it is recommended that men speak with their doctors about their risks and the potential need for early screening.

About PET/CT of Las Colinas
PET/CT of Las Colinas is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of our patients. We understand that the foundation of a successful treatment plan – or a clean bill of health – begins with sophisticated, accurate imagery. We look forward to providing you with the highest level of care.Our imaging center is located conveniently across the highway from the Las Colinas Medical Center within the Las Colinas Cancer Center on Highway 161 in Irving, TX. and – once here – we offer hassle-free curbside parking.