Abstract:
BACKGROUND : Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for metastatic or inoperable neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)
is a systemic therapy which targets somatostatin receptors overexpressed by differentiated NETs for endoradiotherapy.
This guideline has been compiled by the College of Nuclear Physicians of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, with
endorsement by the South African Society of Nuclear Medicine and the Association of Nuclear Physicians to guide Nuclear
Medicine Physicians in its application during the management of these patients.
RECOMMENDATIONS : Patients with well- to moderately-differentiated NETs should be comprehensively worked-up to
determine their suitability for PRRT. Treatment should be administered by a Nuclear Medicine Physician in a licensed,
appropriately equipped and fully staffed facility. Patient monitoring is mandatory during and after each therapy cycle to
identify and treat therapy-related adverse events. Patients should also be followed-up after completion of therapy cycles for
monitoring of long-term toxicities and response assessment.
CONCLUSION : PRRT is a safe and effective therapy option in patients with differentiated NETs. Its use in appropriate patients
is associated with a survival benefit.
