Fluciclovine (18F) is a radiopharmaceutical used in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of prostate cancer. It is a synthetic amino acid analog of methionine that has been labeled with fluorine-18. When injected into the body, the radioisotope is taken up by tumor cells and emits positron radiation, which can be detected by PET imaging. Fluciclovine (18F) is used to aid in the detection and staging of recurrent prostate cancer and is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Studies have shown that it can detect prostate cancer with greater accuracy than existing methods.
Fluciclovine (18F), also known by the brand name Axumin, is a diagnostic agent used in imaging tests [3]. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
Medical Use:
- Fluciclovine (18F) is used in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, specifically for men suspected of having recurrent prostate cancer after prior treatment [3].
- Prostate cancer recurrence is often indicated by rising levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood [4].
How it Works:
- Fluciclovine (18F) is a synthetic molecule similar to the amino acid L-leucine but with a radioactive fluorine-18 (18F) atom attached [3].
- Cancer cells, including prostate cancer cells, tend to have an increased need for amino acids compared to healthy cells [2].
- Fluciclovine (18F) gets taken up by these cancer cells due to this increased need, and the radioactive 18F allows it to be detected during a PET scan [2].
- By highlighting areas with high Fluciclovine (18F) concentration, the PET scan can help identify the location of potential recurrent prostate cancer.
Additional Points:
- Fluciclovine (18F) has advantages over some other imaging agents for prostate cancer, such as lower kidney uptake and reduced activity in the urinary tract [3].
- While effective, Fluciclovine (18F) may not be the best option in all cases. For instance, newer tracers like 68Ga-PSMA-11 might be better for detecting small lymph nodes in some situations [2].
Important to Note:
- Fluciclovine (18F) is a radioactive drug and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.