Axumin Scan - Effectively Detect and Localize Biochemically Recurrent Prostate Cancer
About the Axumin Scan:
Effectively detect and localize biochemically recurrent prostate cancer
Why the Axumin Scan?
Prostate cancer is one of the top 3 cancers diagnosed in the United States and 1 in 3 men treated for prostate cancer experience a biochemical recurrence within 10 years.
What is the Axumin Scan?
It is a newer PET Scan that can look for suspected prostate cancer recurrence based on rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood levels after treatment. By continuously monitoring PSA levels following treatment, Axumin can be used as soon as PSA levels begin trending upward leading to quicker detection.
Is the Axumin Scan Covered by Insurance?
It is covered by most insurance plans, but each plan differs because is not considered a standard PET Scan and may have different requirements for pre-authorization.
What is Needed to Prepare for the Axumin Scan?
- Keep physical activity low for 24 hours prior to the exam as physical activity can make the exam less accurate.
- Do not eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to the exam. If necessary, medications can be taken with a small amount of water within that 4 hours.
- Do not chew gum or suck on mints.
- An IV will be used to administer the Axumin radioactive tracer.
- The scan will take 40-45 minutes.
- You can resume normal activities and diet following the procedure.
Who Do I Talk to About the Axumin Scan?
The June E. Nylen Cancer Center will accept referrals from any primary care or specialty physician for this procedure that helps in the early detection of reoccurring prostate cancer in men. Talk to your physician if the Axumin Scan is right for you. Once scheduled, we will provide further instructions for you.