“LUTETIUM therapy is an innovative approach to treat certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer or neuroendocrine tumors. Therapy with 177Lu PSMA or 177 Lu DOTATATE is offered to patients with metastatic prostate cancer or in metastatic low-grade digestive neuroendocrine tumors. It is applied in patients whose disease has progressed despite hormonal therapy or chemotherapy,” explains Dr. Shirley Alarcón, head of the Nuclear Medicine service at our institution.

What does the procedure consist of?

A dose of 200 mCi of 177Lutetium is administered intravenously, in cycles of 4 to 6 sessions every 6 to 8 weeks. Treatment is performed in hospitalization to monitor any symptoms related to the underlying disease.

Benefits:

The goal of the therapy is to destroy metastatic lesions, slow disease progression and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Who cannot receive this therapy?

Before treatment, the patient’s general condition is evaluated. It is not recommended in cases of:

• End-stage renal failure with dialysis.
• Psychiatric or disabled patients without adequate family support.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• In addition, pediatric, geriatric or disabled patients must have a family member present during hospitalization.

What care is required after Lutetium Therapy has been performed?

Lutetium-177 is eliminated mainly through urine and feces. During the three days following treatment, follow these recommendations:

• Keep a distance of two meters and avoid prolonged contact with children and pregnant women.
• Drink 2 to 3 liters of liquids per day to favor the elimination of the radiopharmaceutical.
• Flush the toilet two to three times with the lid closed. Men should urinate sitting down.

Remember:

This treatment offers an effective alternative for certain types of cancer, always under appropriate specialized medical supervision.

Dr. Shirley Alarcón
Head of the Nuclear Medicine Service at the Clínica Ricardo Palma