RadNet’s Research Division has been participating in two clinical trials of a prostate-specific Positron Emission Tomography (PET) tracer in men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer and those with a recurrence of prostate cancer after having undergone previous prostate cancer treatment. Under the guidance of Judith Rose M.D., Medical Director of PET/CT and Clinical Research for RadNet, and in conjunction with Dr. David Josephson M.D. of Tower Urology, and Blue Earth Diagnostics. The intent of the trials was to evaluate the rhPASMA tracer to determine the extent and location of new and recurrent prostate cancer, in order to determine appropriate clinical management.
Lighthouse & Spotlight
The two studies are technically known as BED-PSMA-301 and BED-PSMA-302. The names are Lighthouse and Spotlight.
The Lighthouse study is investigating the safety and diagnostic performance of the PET PSMA tracer in men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer. Spotlight is investigating this same PSMA tracer in men with suspected prostate cancer recurrence, based on an elevated PSA level following prior therapy for prostate cancer.
These studies were being conducted in both the U.S. and Europe, at multiple centers.
What is a PET tracer?
Positron Emission Tomography, or PET, is an imaging technique that uses substances known as tracers to visualize and measure changes in processes as well as other physiological activities. These tracers are administered intravenously and different tracers are used for various purposes, depending on the specific disease of the patient and their clinical presentation. An example is FDG, and Axumin, which is another tracer used for detecting prostate cancer. Radnet was also involved in the LOCATE trial which was the pre-marketing approval study for Axumin
Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It surrounds the urethra at the neck of the bladder and its main function is to make a fluid that goes into semen.
Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. Some prostate cancers can spread quickly, but most develop slowly.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, affecting 1 in 9 men. Despite the prevalence of prostate cancer, it is highly treatable if detected early. Today, 3.1 million men living in the United States have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point.
RadNet Research
RadNet has a long history of participating in clinical trials and research programs. We partner with labs, medical companies and other physicians to test new technologies, equipment and cutting-edge treatments. The Lighthouse and the Spotlight trials have now completed enrollment and are currently closed to new patients if you are interested in learning more or seeing if you qualify to participate in a clinical trial, please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.