PSMA PET combines positron-emission tomography with CT or, in some centers, MRI. A radiolabeled PSMA ligand is used to visualize many prostate-cancer deposits that express prostate-specific membrane antigen. The test can help answer staging, recurrence and treatment-planning questions, but it should be ordered for a defined clinical purpose rather than as an isolated medical-tourism package.
What PSMA PET/CT can help clarify
Charité describes Ga-68 PSMA PET as a method for assessing the extent of histologically confirmed prostate cancer. Depending on the clinical situation, the scan can contribute to staging or to assessment before PSMA-targeted treatment.
Bring the records that define the clinical question
The imaging team needs context to interpret a PSMA scan meaningfully.
- Pathology report confirming prostate cancer
- PSA values and trend
- Previous prostate MRI, CT, bone scan or PET imaging
- Operative and radiotherapy reports when already treated
- Current systemic treatment and medication
- Recent kidney function and thyroid laboratory results when requested for contrast imaging
The visit is longer than the camera scan
Charité explains that the tracer is administered intravenously and imaging follows after an uptake period. The entire appointment can take several hours even though image acquisition itself is shorter.
PSMA positivity is also relevant before PSMA radioligand therapy
For patients being evaluated for Lu-177 PSMA therapy, Charité uses PSMA PET/CT to assess whether tumor manifestations show sufficient PSMA uptake. This does not mean that a positive scan automatically makes a patient eligible for treatment.
Ask how the result will change management
Before travelling only for imaging, clarify who requested the scan, who will interpret it, whether the images will be discussed in a multidisciplinary team and what treatment decision the result is expected to inform.
Official sources
Sources last checked 2026-08-29. Diagnostic indications and preparation requirements can change, so confirm current instructions with the imaging center before travelling.