When Should You Get a — PSMA PET Scan?

No. A standard PET scan uses a glucose-based tracer that cancer cells take up because they consume more energy than normal tissue. PSMA PET-CT uses a different tracer that binds to a protein called prostate-specific membrane antigen, which is expressed at high levels on most prostate cancer cells. This makes it considerably more sensitive for detecting prostate cancer specifically — which is why it has largely replaced standard PET and bone scans in the scenarios where it is indicated. The two scans have different tracers, different preparation, and different costs.

PSMA PET-CT performs better at lower PSA levels than conventional imaging does, which is part of why it is preferred in biochemical recurrence. Whether it is worth doing at a very low PSA in your specific situation is a judgement your oncologist makes based on your clinical picture and what the result would change. A useful question to ask directly is: what would we do differently if the scan is positive, and what would we do if it is negative? The answer tells you whether the scan is adding information or not.

No. PSMA PET-CT requires specialised equipment and a cyclotron-produced tracer with a short shelf life. CION coordinates the scan through partner imaging centres rather than running its own scanner. Tracer availability is confirmed at the time of booking, which is why you are given a date rather than scheduling far in advance. The indicative cost at partner centres is around ₹23,999 as of the time this page was written; confirm the current figure when the scan is arranged, as it may vary.

Through CION partner centres the indicative cost is around ₹23,999, though this is subject to change and may vary by centre and timing. It is considerably higher than a conventional CT or bone scan, which is one reason it is reserved for situations where it is expected to change management rather than used routinely. Your team can confirm the current cost and advise on any available assistance when the referral is made.

Yes. A proportion of prostate cancers express PSMA at low levels and may not show up on the scan. Very small deposits can also fall below what current scanners can resolve. A negative or normal result reduces concern but does not eliminate it. Your oncologist will interpret the result alongside your PSA trend, biopsy findings, and other clinical information — not as a standalone answer. If PSA continues to rise after a negative PSMA PET-CT, that remains a finding to act on and your team will discuss what the next step is.

Have the conversation openly rather than asking for a substitute without context. Conventional imaging still has a role in certain settings, and in some situations PSMA PET-CT has not been shown to change outcomes over standard imaging for a particular patient. Ask your oncologist which scan is being ordered and why, and whether PSMA PET-CT would add anything specific to your situation. If you remain uncertain after that conversation, seeking a second oncology opinion is entirely reasonable.