Theranostics: is it really a revolution? Evaluating a new term in medicine

Area of Science:

• Medical terminology
• Diagnostic and therapeutic integration

Background:

• The terms "theranostics" and "theragnostics" have seen increased publication frequency since 2011.
• A dedicated journal, "Theranostics," was established in 2011, indicating growing interest.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the etymology and definitions of "theranostics."
• To evaluate the justification for using a new term for diagnostic and therapeutic practices.
• To explore the relationship between diagnostics and therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature search for definitions of "theranostics."
• Analysis of the etymological roots of the term.
• Examination of the differences between diagnostics and therapy.

Main Results:

• Two definitions of theranostics were identified: a broad definition emphasizing a closer relationship between diagnostics and therapy, and a narrow definition where they become a single intervention.
• The narrow definition limits diagnostic capabilities to monitoring.
• Neither definition represents a novel medical concept; they describe established medical decision-making processes.

Conclusions:

• The term "theranostics" is not scientifically justified as it does not introduce a new concept.
• The advancement lies in the molecular/nano level of diagnostics, not the relationship between diagnostics and therapy.
• The term is misleading, obscuring the differences between diagnostics and therapy and suggesting steps can be omitted.