What should you know about a whole-body PSMA PET scan?

PSMA is a substance found in higher amounts on many prostate cancer cells. The tracer is given through a vein and travels in the bloodstream. PET images then show where the tracer collects; a CT part of the examination helps map those areas to body structures. This can help a specialist look for disease in the prostate region, lymph nodes, bones, or other organs.

The scan may be considered when prostate cancer is suspected, when staging is needed, or when a clinician is looking for disease after treatment. A PSMA scan is different from an FDG study, which uses a different tracer and is helpful for some other cancer types. See the [PET-CT Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/pet-ct-scan/) overview and information about the [PET-CT Scanner](/technology/pet-ct-scanner/).

The imaging centre will tell you whether to avoid food for a period before the appointment and whether to change any medicines. Wear comfortable clothing, remove metal objects, and tell the team if you might be pregnant or are breastfeeding. Mention any difficulty lying flat or remaining still.

After the tracer injection, you usually rest quietly while it distributes. During imaging, you lie on a moving table that passes through the scanner. Staying still helps reduce blurring. The appointment includes preparation, injection, a waiting period, and image-taking; the team will give you exact timing.

Tell staff promptly about trouble breathing, facial swelling, widespread itching, or feeling faint after the injection. These symptoms need immediate assessment. Contact the centre if you cannot follow the preparation instructions, have missed a prescribed medicine, or develop a new illness before the appointment so they can advise you.

Ask why PSMA imaging is being recommended, what area will be scanned, whether you need to fast, and when the report will be shared. You can also ask how the result may affect staging or the next decision, and whether another test such as an [FDG Radiotracer](/materials/fdg-radiotracer/) study is relevant.