Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Theranostics Beyond Traditional Skin Cancer Care
Theranostic approaches are increasingly being explored and utilised in the management of selected non-melanoma skin cancers.
Innovations in imaging, targeted therapies and radionuclide treatments continue to expand treatment possibilities.
Treatments
Appropriate treatment options vary depending on:
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Cancer type
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Disease stage
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Location
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Patient circumstances
Research
Research is ongoing into:
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Novel radionuclide therapies
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Personalised treatment approaches
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Improved patient outcomes
Patient Guide
Patients should discuss available treatment options with their dermatologist, radiation oncologist or other treating specialist.
Learn More
Cancer Council Australia:
https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/skin-cance
Nuclear medicine is also contributing to new approaches for treating selected non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). In Australia, Rhenium-188 brachytherapy provides a localised radionuclide treatment in which beta radiation is delivered directly to the affected skin lesion.
Unlike established theranostic pathways such as PSMA-targeted treatment for prostate cancer or PRRT for neuroendocrine tumours, Rhenium-188 skin therapy does not rely on molecular imaging to identify a corresponding biological target before treatment. It is therefore more accurately described as a targeted radionuclide therapy rather than a classical theranostic approach.
Its inclusion within the broader theranostics conversation reflects the expanding role of radiopharmaceutical science and targeted radionuclide therapies in precision cancer care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is nuclear medicine being used to treat non-melanoma skin cancer?
Rhenium-188 therapy is available as a treatment approach for selected non-melanoma skin cancers. A radioactive compound containing Rhenium-188 is applied over a protective foil covering the lesion, delivering localised beta radiation to the treatment area.
Is Rhenium-188 treatment a theranostic therapy?
Not in the same way as established theranostic approaches used in prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumours. Rhenium-188 skin therapy does not require molecular imaging to demonstrate a specific target before administering a corresponding targeted radionuclide. It is more accurately described as a localised radionuclide or brachytherapy treatment.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals who can consider individual circumstances and clinical needs.