Clinical impact of PET imaging in prostate cancer management

Imaging of prostate cancer has been a rapidly evolving field in recent years with the introduction of multiple new PET tracer agents. Introduction of novel imaging techniques into clinical practice requires careful evaluation, with the ultimate aims of improved patient outcomes, better sequencing of treatments, and cost effectiveness. The increased sensitivity and specificity of these new PET agents present both challenges and opportunities. We know they frequently change management, but are these effective management changes, and is it always in the best interests of the patients?

This review will focus on recent publications that provide high-level evidence for the use of PET in prostate cancer. It will discuss studies that have evaluated the clinical impact of PET imaging in prostate cancer and will review a number of trials that demonstrate the potential of PET to change current standard of care, from diagnosis, to prognostic capabilities in men with metastatic prostate cancer.

Evidence for the use of PET in prostate cancer is building with studies evaluating diagnostic accuracy of PET at all stages of prostate cancer. We review the evidence available, focusing on prospective trials that are measuring the impact of new technology on patient outcomes.