The founder of PET/CT at Las Colinas talks about the benefits of combination screening for recurrences.

Irving, TX – Men who “beat” prostate cancer might be dismayed to find the need for follow-up screening doesn’t go away with the disease. Routine screening is considered a must to help ensure any recurrence of cancer that may present is detected and addressed as quickly as possible. Just like a first go-around, a repeat occurrence is easier to treat successfully if it is caught early.

A relatively new advancement in imaging may give men and their doctors an edge in ensuring early diagnosis and treatment of recurrent tumors. Researchers have developed a new radioactive tracer drug that enables a PET/CT scan to stop recurrences sooner and even pinpoint the extent and location of a recurrence.

“Studies have shown the new tracer enables a standard PET/CT scan to detect recurrent prostate cancer more readily than either CT or MRI scans,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder of PET/CT of Las Colinas. “The findings are significant because the PET/CT scan simply makes it more feasible for physicians to provide patient-specific treatments that are likely to improve not only the quality of care but also outcomes.”

PET/CT scans are imaging tests that involve the use of computerized tomography and positron emission tomography both. The scans deliver a clearer, more detailed picture of the internal workings of the human body than single imaging tests are able to provide. Studies have found these combination scans are able to find cancer sooner while providing more precision in determining the nature of a recurrence.

“The breakthrough is a significant one for any man who is facing routine follow-up after initial prostate cancer treatments,” Dr. Echt says. “Having the ability to more clearly and quickly confirm or deny recurrences is a tremendous step forward.”

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.