PET/CT Prostate (Axumin)

What Is PET/CT Prostate?

PET/CT Prostate imaging is performed on men with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer. These are patients with a history of treatment for prostate cancer and now have a rising PSA level. A radioactive tracer is used to target the increased amino acid transporters which occur in many prostate cancers.

Before the Exam

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. For the best experience please properly prepare for your appointment:

• Do not do any heavy exercise 24 hours prior to the appointment. This includes jogging, aerobics, shoveling and lifting weights.
• Do not eat or drink 4 hours before the appointment. No chewing gum or breath mints.
• Please take necessary medications with a small amount of water and/or a few crackers.
• If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, it must be done the day prior to the exam.
• Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing and wear as little metal as possible.

During the Exam

• A Nuclear Medicine technologist will explain and perform the exam.
• Appointment starts with you emptying your bladder.
• Technologist starts an IV in your arm.
• Technologist positions you on an exam table where the scan takes place.
• The radioactive tracer is injected into your IV.
• Lying as still as possible, images are taken for the next 20-30 minutes.

After the Exam

• You may resume your normal activities.
• Increase your fluid intake unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• The radioactive tracer used for this test is F-18 Fluciclovine (Axumin).
• A radiologist is a doctor who reads your exam. They will get results to your ordering provider within 5 business days. Your ordering clinic will provide you with the results.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.