Lutetium-177 Treatment in India
Lutetium-177 Treatment PSMA Therapy, also known as Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Therapy, is increasingly popular for men with advanced prostate cancer, especially those with metastases or tumors resistant to previous treatments. This precise therapy delivers high doses of radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. In India, patients with advanced prostate cancer or those unresponsive to conventional therapies can receive Lu-PSMA therapy. The cost in India is significantly lower compared to other developed nations, starting at USD. This cost varies based on the doctor’s fees and hospital room rates, which range from multi-room to single room options. Moreover, the success rate of Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy in India is notably high.
What is PSMA?
Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) is a receptor found on many prostate cancer cells, particularly those that are advanced or resistant to hormonal therapies. PSMA is also present at metastatic sites when prostate cancer spreads. It is a prime target for imaging and treating prostate cancer due to several reasons:
- Nearly all prostate cancer cases express PSMA.
- Patients with metastatic or hormone-refractory diseases have higher PSMA levels.
- PSMA is crucial for cell membrane function and is not released into the blood.
- PSMA internalizes upon antibody binding through receptor-mediated endocytosis.
What is Nuclear Medicine Therapy?
Nuclear medicine therapy in India uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat various conditions. This focused approach employs radiopharmaceuticals—radioactive materials or radioisotopes—that target cancer cells. The radioactive substance, combined with a tumor-targeting agent, deposits lethal radiation into the tumor. It can be administered orally, intravenously, or as a capsule. Leading hospitals in India, such as Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), provide nuclear medicine therapy. FMRI’s Nuclear Medicine division specializes in various radioisotope therapies. It was the first facility in India to offer Lutetium PSMA therapy and has successfully treated many patients. FMRI is also the first in India to provide Targeted Alpha Therapy for neuroendocrine tumors, prostate cancer, and certain brain cancers. Additionally, it is the only facility offering myeloablative MIBG therapy for high-risk pediatric neuroblastomas.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy in India?
Candidates for Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy in India include patients whose prostate cancer has spread and progressed despite previous treatments like hormonal therapies and chemotherapy. Eligibility is confirmed through a PSMA PET scan available at the Best Nuclear Medicine Therapy Hospitals in India. If the scan confirms the presence of PSMA-positive cancer cells, the patient can proceed with Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy in India, benefiting from advanced medical care and significantly lower costs.
