The founder of PET/CT at Las Colinas talks about the benefits of a new test.

Irving, TX – Thanks to an ongoing educational push and routine screening, prostate cancer is among one of the most survivable forms of this disease. Even so, more than 20,000 of the 180,000 American men diagnosed annually do die from the disease. In some cases, morbidity becomes a concern because cancer that had been treated makes a return. Improving the accuracy of follow-up screening to detect recurrences is the aim of a relatively new PET scan procedure.

The new screening involves the use of a tracer drug called Axumin. This tracer is able to illuminate cancer cells on PET scan images. This test has been shown to have the ability to detect recurrences that standard MRI or CT scans might miss. Its effectiveness has been gauged so high, it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

“Having the ability to more accurately detect recurrent prostate cancer is vital for enabling potentially lifesaving treatment,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder of PET/CT of Las Colinas. “This is a big step in the right direction that may help improve the survival rate even more.”

Men who undergo prostate cancer treatment are urged to follow though closely with any routine checkups. Although not common, prostate cancer can sometimes recur. Detecting this as early as possible can improve a man’s odds of beating the disease.

Follow-up protocols typically call for routine prostate-specific antigen blood tests. If those tests signal a cause for concern, MRIs or CTs are generally suggested. The new PET scan may also be a possibility as its use becomes more widely accepted.

“Regardless of the follow-up tests recommended, it is important for men to stick to the requested schedule,” says Dr. Echt. “Recurrence is rare, but it is not unheard of. Catching it early can make a tremendous difference in outcomes.”

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.