peptide receptor radionuclide therapy
Targeted radiotherapy using radiolabeled somatostatin analogs for treating somatostatin receptor-positive neuroendocrine tumors.
Full Definition
Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is a targeted molecular radiotherapy that uses radiolabeled somatostatin analogs to deliver radiation directly to somatostatin receptor-positive neuroendocrine tumors. The most commonly used agents are lutetium-177-DOTATATE and yttrium-90-DOTATOC, which bind to somatostatin receptors on tumor cells and deliver beta radiation to destroy cancer cells. PRRT is indicated for progressive, well-differentiated, somatostatin receptor-positive gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Patient selection requires positive somatostatin receptor imaging and adequate organ function. The therapy is typically administered in multiple cycles over several months, with careful monitoring for potential side effects including nephrotoxicity and hematologic toxicity.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PRRT; ensure proper capitalization in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The patient is scheduled for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy following positive Gallium-68 DOTATATE PET scan." — Treatment planning
- "Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy achieved significant tumor volume reduction in this metastatic neuroendocrine tumor case." — Oncology follow-up