“As of a few years ago, we’ve been able to use a PSMA PET/CT scanner at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. PSMA refers to a kind of antenna found on the surface of prostate cancer cells. During the scan, we use a very small amount of a mildly radioactive substance that specifically binds to these antennas. This low dose is not harmful, and allows us to pinpoint the exact location of the tumor on the scan. I have been researching whether we can also use a radioactive substance that binds to PSMA during surgery for prostate cancer patients with lymph node metastases. And as it turns out, we can! We can measure the radioactive signal with a device resembling a miniature metal detector, allowing us to locate metastases with even greater precision. This approach has even been able to reveal metastases that weren’t visible on the scan! We also explored the use of a fluorescent substance that binds to PSMA. This can light up prostate cancer and lymph node metastases during surgery. The first time I witnessed this, it was just like science fiction! We can use these techniques to remove more than 90 percent of the metastases. Having experienced prostate cancer in my own family, I know how crucial such advancements are.”
Hilda de Barros is training to become a urologist at Dijklander Hospital in Hoorn. She will defend her thesis on December 6.
Research at the Netherlands Cancer Institute is financially supported by KWF Dutch Cancer Society.
prof. dr. H.G. van der Poel & prof. dr. R.J.A. van Moorselaar
P.J. van Leeuwen & prof. A.N. Vis