The Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center is now offering an advanced tool for diagnosing recurrent prostate cancer that is typically only found in much larger, academic medical centers.
Axumin™ is a diagnostic agent for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. The injectable agent can identify recurrences of cancer throughout the body in men who have previously been treated for prostate cancer. According to Alan Wan, MD, medical oncologist, Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center, recurrent disease is typically detected by a rise in PSA levels but often the location and extent of the disease cannot be detected by conventional imaging.
“For men with prostate cancer, this is a more accurate surveillance tool to help detect progression of the disease,” said Dr. Wan. “Now, prostate cancer patients can receive testing in DeKalb that is unmatched by other centers in the region. It’s important technological advancements like this, in addition to clinical trials and direct consultation with top specialists, that keep Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center at the forefront of cancer treatment.”
The month of “Movember,” also known as No-Shave November or Moustache November, is meant to bring awareness to men’s health. November is a great time for men to talk to their doctors about being screened for prostate cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about one man in seven will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, however family history and other factors can increase risk in younger men.
“Prostate cancer screening should be discussed on a case by case basis with a patient’s primary care physician,” add Dr. Wan.
Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital Cancer Center is a comprehensive cancer center with locations in DeKalb, Sandwich and Rochelle. Treatment options offered include hematology, medical oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology for many types of cancer including lung, breast and colon. To schedule an appointment, call 815.756.5255. For more information, visit kishcancer.org or nm.org.
Click Here To Submit A News Tip Or Story