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Theranostics

Overview

The term "theranostics" is derived from two words: therapy and diagnostics. It is a cutting-edge, personalised approach to cancer treatment. Using this method, special molecules called radioligands are tagged with imaging tracers (like F-18 or Ga-68) and used in a PET scan to identify cancer cell receptors. If the receptors are strongly expressed, the same ligand used to “see” the target is then used to “treat” it, delivering Beta or Alpha particles directly to the cancer cells, labelled with a therapeutic radionuclide such as Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) or Actinium-225 (Ac-225). This “see and treat” approach is the foundation of highly personalised, targeted cancer therapy. 

Theranostics is used in several cancers where specific receptors are overexpressed, including:

  • Prostate cancer (PSMA-targeted therapy)
  • Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) (using DOTATATE or DOTATOC therapy)
  • Thyroid cancer (radio-iodine therapy with I-131)

For Lu177 and Ac225 therapies: 

  • The treatment is administered through an intravenous injection.
  • It is a painless procedure with minimal or no side effects.
  • Patients are usually admitted for a day for the purpose of administering amino acid infusions or saline along with the TRT, better monitoring of the patient post therapy, and acquiring a post therapy scan at 24 hours.

For I-131 radio-iodine therapy: 

  • The treatment is given orally as a small liquid dose.
  • It is painless, and the admission is done for one or two days primarily for the sake of radiation safety and avoiding exposure of the patients’ family to the radiation. 

Duration of the procedure

  • The actual injection or oral dose takes only a few minutes.
  • Hospital stay varies:
    • Lu-177 / Ac-225 therapy: usually 1 day.
    • I-131 therapy: 1–2 days (for radiation safety and monitoring).

  • Patients can usually resume normal activities within 1–2 days after discharge.
  • Drinking plenty of fluids helps eliminate residual radiation.
  • Radiation safety instructions will be provided, including:
    • Limiting close contact with family members (especially children and pregnant women) for a few days
    • Following hygiene practices to reduce radiation exposure (e.g., flushing toilet twice, separate laundry if advised)
  • Regular follow-up scans and blood tests help assess treatment effectiveness and monitor side effects.

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.