Theranostics

Theranostics is a combination of two terms: therapeutics and diagnostics. It uses unstable variants of elements called radioisotopes that release radiation. 

During the diagnostic phase, radioisotope molecules are used to create images of a patient’s tumor. The radioisotope molecule is injected into the patient’s arm. It circulates through the body, finding and attaching to the cancer cells. Using technology such as a PET scan, physicians can view precise images of these cells to determine if they can be effectively targeted.

If the patient is a good candidate for theranostics treatment, a therapeutic version of the molecule will be injected to target and kill the cancer cells without harming healthy cells. Because it travels through the bloodstream, theranostics can target cancer cells in multiple areas simultaneously. 

Moreover, after the therapeutic molecule is administered, physicians can visualize the radiation’s effect on the cancer cells. This allows them to determine how much therapeutic radiation reaches the cancer cells, how well it works and whether additional treatment is needed. This type of precise tracking is not possible with other forms of radiation therapy.

Theranostics is currently used to treat several types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer and prostate cancer, that have advanced to a later stage. Patients typically receive six theranostics sessions in six-week intervals. 

Side effects of theranostics are usually minimal. Some patients experience fatigue, which may last up to a week after treatment.

Depending on the organ treated, there may be GI symptoms or dry mouth. 

If you have been diagnosed with cancer and your oncologist recommends theranostics, you may want to ask questions such as:

• How often will I need it?
• How many treatments will I need?
• What are the side effects?
• How can I manage the side effects?
• Where do I go for treatment?
• Will I have to miss work or school?
• Is this covered by my health insurance?