PET Scan Detects Recurrent Prostate Cancer

New study finds F-18 fluciclovine PET scans identify cancer when PSMA-PET results are negative.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Cancer

A modern PET/CT diagnostic scanner in a sterile, brightly lit medical examination room. — Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found F-18 fluciclovine PET scans identified recurrent prostate cancer when standard PSMA-PET results were negative. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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If a follow-up medical test shows new information, should you change your current treatment plan?

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that F-18 fluciclovine PET/CT scans successfully detected recurrent prostate cancer in 56% of patients who had previously received negative PSMA-PET results. These findings suggest a potential complementary role for fluciclovine imaging in managing biochemical recurrence.

Why it matters

Identifying the exact location of recurring cancer is essential for effective treatment, particularly when standard PSMA-PET imaging fails to pinpoint the disease. This study explores how alternative imaging can catch these missed cases and influence clinical decision-making.

A study of 50 patients showed that fluciclovine PET imaging yielded positive findings in 28 individuals, with detection rates scaling from 44% at low PSA levels to 100% at levels of 5 ng/mL or higher.

The players

Oregon Health & Science University

This public research university and academic health center is located in Portland and serves as a major hub for medical innovation in the Pacific Northwest.

The details

The prospective trial observed 50 patients with biochemical recurrence, finding that fluciclovine imaging led to changes in intended medical management for 71% of all participants. In cases where the scan was positive, management was altered for 87% of patients, while negative scans still prompted changes in 54% of cases.

October 29, 2026: The study was published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine.

Health Landscape

The study's inclusion in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine underscores the significance of these findings for cancer imaging protocols. This research follows a pattern set by previous studies in the journal aimed at refining diagnostic accuracy for patients with complex recurrent cancers.

Patients dealing with recurrent prostate cancer may have an additional diagnostic tool available if their initial PSMA-PET scans do not provide a clear picture. This could lead to earlier detection and more personalized treatment plans for those struggling with biochemical recurrence.

The takeaway

Advancements in PET imaging offer clinicians better precision when traditional methods fail to locate recurring tumors. Patients should consult with their oncologists about whether supplemental imaging might be appropriate based on their specific PSA levels and prior scan history.