Early Experience of Rechallenge <sup>177</sup>Lu-PSMA Radioligand Therapy After an Initial Good Response in Patients with Advanced Prostate Cancer.

Gafita, Andrei; Rauscher, Isabel; Retz, Margitta; Knorr, Karina; Heck, Matthias; Wester, Hans-Jürgen; D'Alessandria, Calogero; Weber, Wolfgang A et al. · J Nucl Med · 2019

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Abstract

Our aim was to retrospectively evaluate the feasibility of rechallenge <sup>177</sup>Lu-prostate-specific membrane antigen (<sup>177</sup>Lu-PSMA) radioligand therapy. <b>Methods:</b> Rechallenge radioligand therapy was defined as subsequent treatment with <sup>177</sup>Lu-PSMA after initial exposure with an excellent response followed by progression. Biochemical, radiographic, clinical antitumor response, and adverse events were analyzed. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival were calculated. <b>Results:</b> Eight patients underwent a median of 2 (range: 1-4) cycles of rechallenge with <sup>177</sup>Lu-PSMA for imaging and therapy. A maximum PSA decrease of 50% was achieved in 3 patients (37.5%). Radiographic response was favorable in 3 patients, whereas 4 exhibited progressive disease. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was stable during therapy in all patients. No grade 4 toxicity was noticed, and grade 3 toxicity occurred in 3 patients (37.5%). The median PSA-PFS and overall survival were 3.2 mo (95% confidence interval, 2.6-3.7 mo) and 14.0 mo (95% confidence interval, 6.2-21.8 mo), respectively. <b>Conclusion:</b> In a small patient cohort with an initial excellent response, <sup>177</sup>Lu-PSMA rechallenge is still active, with lower efficacy and higher toxicity.

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