Fairfax Radiology Centers

Advanced Prostate Imaging: What to Know About PET/CT PSMA

Advanced Prostate Imaging: What to Know About PET/CT PSMA

At Fairfax Radiology, we’re committed to providing advanced diagnostic imaging to support personalized, precise care.

If you or a loved one is navigating prostate cancer, you may have heard about PET/CT PSMA—a leading-edge diagnostic tool offering clearer answers for more confident treatment planning.

What Is PET/CT PSMA Imaging?

PET/CT PSMA (Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen) imaging is a highly specialized scan used to detect prostate cancer cells throughout the body. This scan combines PET (Positron Emission Tomography) with a non-diagnostic CT (Computed Tomography) to create detailed images that highlight cancer activity.

What is Pylarify?

Pylarify is an FDA-approved imaging agent specifically designed to target PSMA—a protein found in high amounts on prostate cancer cells. When used during a PET/CT scan, Pylarify binds to PSMA and allows radiologists to detect small or hidden tumors that traditional imaging might miss.

Who Should Get a PSMA PET/CT?

Your urologist or oncologist may recommend this scan if:

  • You’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer and your doctor needs to stage the disease (see if it has spread).
  • There’s a rise in PSA levels after treatment, and your care team needs to locate recurrent disease.
  • You’re being considered for targeted therapy and need precise imaging to guide treatment.

Benefits of PET/CT PSMA:

  • Earlier detection of recurrence or spread
  • More accurate staging, helping guide surgery or radiation plans
  • Personalized treatment planning based on detailed imaging
  • Performed by subspecialized radiologists at Fairfax Radiology with expertise in oncologic imaging

What to Expect

The scan is outpatient and typically takes a couple of hours. You’ll receive an injection of Pylarify, then wait while the tracer circulates before imaging begins. Our experienced nuclear medicine team will walk you through every step.

Why Choose Fairfax Radiology?

Our team of subspecialized radiologists brings deep expertise in cancer imaging, ensuring that your scan is interpreted with precision. We work closely with your care team to deliver accurate, timely results that help guide your next steps with confidence.

Click here to learn more about PET/CT.
 

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