Radiopharmaceuticals / Radioligand Therapy
Radionuclide therapy is a form of targeted radiation therapy used to treat certain cancers
This treatment uses specialized radioactive medicines, called radiopharmaceuticals, that are designed to locate and attach to specific cancer cells.
The medication is given through an intravenous (IV) injection or infusion, allowing it to circulate through the bloodstream and reach cancer cells throughout the body.
Because these medicines are engineered to seek out cancer cells, radionuclide therapy can deliver radiation directly where it is needed while helping reduce exposure to nearby healthy tissue.
At Central Maryland Radiation Oncology (CMRO), radionuclide therapy is part of our commitment to offering advanced, personalized cancer treatment options for our patients.
How Radionucide Therapy Works
Unlike external beam radiation therapy, which delivers radiation from outside the body, radionuclide therapy works from inside the body.
After the radioactive medication enters the bloodstream, it travels through the body and attaches to cancer cells that have specific molecular markers. Once attached, the medication releases targeted radiation that damages and destroys those cancer cells.
Because the treatment moves through the bloodstream, radionuclide therapy can treat both primary tumors and metastatic cancer that may have spread to other areas.
Patients receiving radionuclide therapy may also receive other forms of radiation treatment, such as:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (including Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT))
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
- Brachytherapy
These treatments may be used alone or in combination depending on a patient’s specific diagnosis and treatment plan.
Radionuclide Therapy for Prostate Cancer
At Central Maryland Radiation Oncology, radionuclide therapy may be recommended for patients with certain types of advanced or metastatic prostate cancer.
Two commonly used therapies include Radium-223 (Xofigo®) and Lutetium-177 (PLUVICTO®).
Your CMRO physician will determine whether radionuclide therapy is an appropriate option based on your cancer type, stage, and overall health.
Cancers Treated with Radionuclide Therapy
Radionuclide therapy has been used in cancer treatment for more than a century and continues to evolve as new targeted therapies are developed.
Today, radionuclide therapy may be used in the treatment of cancers affecting the:
- Adrenal glands
- Bone (including sarcoma)
- Breast
- Colon
- Lung
- Lymphatic system (lymphoma)
- Pancreas
- Prostate
- Thyroid
Your care team will work closely with you to determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.
If you’re looking for top-tier radiation therapy near home, call us for a consultation at 443-546-1300.