AuthorisedTherapeutic exploratory (Phase II)Interventional

Molecular theranostics for metastatic prostate cancer: PSMA, FAPI, or both?

This research trial is for men with prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. We are testing two new types of scans to find these cancer cells. These scans use special dyes (called radiotracers) that attach to cancer cells, making them light up on the scan. We want to see how well each scan, or both together, can find the cancer. The aim is to find out which scan is most accurate to help doctors plan the best treatment for patients.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic exploratory (Phase II)

Sponsor

Turku University Hospital

Enrolment target

Start

28 Feb 2024

Prostate cancer

What is this study about?

This study is looking at better ways to find prostate cancer that has spread from where it started. When cancer spreads, it's called metastatic cancer. Finding these areas accurately is very important for doctors to decide on the best treatment for you.

We are comparing two different types of special scans called PET/CT scans. These scans use tiny amounts of a slightly radioactive substance, called a 'tracer', which is given to you before the scan. These tracers are designed to stick to prostate cancer cells, making them show up brightly on the scan pictures. One tracer is called 18F-FAPI-74 and the other is 18F-DCFPyL.

The main goal is to see how many people have these special markers (called PSMA and FAPI) on their prostate cancer cells and how many areas of cancer can be found using these scans. We also want to compare how well each scan finds the cancer spread and see if using both together might be better than using just one. This will help doctors understand which scanning method gives the clearest and most accurate picture of where the cancer is.

Key takeaways

This study compares two new types of scans for prostate cancer that has spread.
The scans use special dyes (tracers) to help find cancer cells.
The goal is to find the most accurate way to detect spread, which helps with treatment.
Participation involves receiving injections and having PET/CT scans.
It's for men aged 18 and over with metastatic prostate cancer.

Who may be eligible?

This study is specifically for men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer that doctors believe has spread to other parts of their body. You must be at least 18 years old to take part.

There might be other health conditions or treatments that could stop you from joining, as the researchers need to make sure the study is safe and suitable for everyone involved. For example, they will check your general health and any other medications you are taking.

If you think this study might be for you, it's really important to talk to your doctor or the study team. They can go through all the details and make sure it's the right choice for your specific situation.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a man?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with prostate cancer?
Has your doctor told you your prostate cancer has spread?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would undergo a series of medical assessments and special scans. This would involve receiving injections of the special tracers (18F-FAPI-74 and 18F-DCFPyL) for the PET/CT scans. You will have at least two separate PET/CT scan appointments, one for each tracer, likely on different days. This allows us to compare how well each tracer works. The duration of your participation in the study, including all visits and follow-up, will be determined by the study team, but typically involves a short period for the scans and then ongoing monitoring as part of your standard care.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a clinical trial offers potential benefits, such as access to new scanning methods that might provide more detailed information about your cancer, which could help guide your treatment. However, there are also potential risks; for example, the tracers used in the scans are slightly radioactive, and like all medical procedures, there's a small chance of side effects or discomfort from the injections. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Finland

Common questions

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, which is a small gland in men located below the bladder.

What does 'metastatic' mean?

Metastatic means the cancer has spread from where it started to other parts of the body.

What is a PET/CT scan?

A PET/CT scan is a special imaging test that combines two scans to show both the structure of your body and how your cells are working.

Are the tracers safe?

The tracers contain a very small amount of radiation, similar to other medical imaging tests. The study team will explain all potential risks to you.

Will I get my scan results?

Your doctors will use the results from these scans to help plan your care, and they will discuss these findings with you as part of your treatment plan.