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Systemic therapy
Radioligand therapy
A targeting molecule carrying a radioactive payload to cells that express a specific receptor.
Referral & opinion only
What it is
A molecule that seeks a particular receptor is bound to a radioactive isotope and given intravenously. It circulates, attaches where the receptor is, and delivers radiation from within.
Eligibility usually requires a matching scan first, the same targeting molecule labelled for imaging, showing that your disease actually expresses the receptor. If it does not light up, the treatment will not work.
When it is used
- Where a matched imaging scan confirms receptor expression
- In defined prostate and neuroendocrine settings
- Usually after other systemic options
How the decision is made
- The matched scan comes first. Treating without it is guessing with a radioactive drug.
- Kidney and marrow function, because both limit how many cycles are possible.
- Access, licensing and travel, very few Indian centres are licensed for this.
At a licensed nuclear medicine centre with radiation-safety facilities. KPCIRC holds no radioisotope licence.
Who does what
What we handle, and what happens elsewhere
KPCIRC handles
- Assessment of whether the matched scan is indicated
- Referral to a licensed centre with a complete file
- Board review
- Kidney and marrow surveillance planning
- Cost, scheme and travel mapping
Performed and billed elsewhere
- The imaging scan
- The therapy itself
- Radiation-safety admission where required
- You will be given radiation-safety instructions for the days after each dose, distance from children and pregnant women, and how to handle waste. Follow them exactly; they are not precautionary theatre.
Questions to ask your own doctor
Take these with you. They work whether or not you are treated here.
- Has the matched scan been done, and did it show uptake?
- How many cycles, at what interval?
- What does the whole course cost including travel?
- What does it do to my kidneys and my blood counts?
Support that goes with it
Where this is used
Cancers this commonly forms part of
Not sure this is the right option for you?
That is exactly what a second opinion is for. Bring what you have, we will tell you what is missing and what the alternatives actually are, in writing.