Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) arise from neuroendocrine cells, which release hormones and peptides into the bloodstream and control different organs. The tumours can start almost anywhere in the body. PRRT treatment involves attaching a radioactive medicine to a special protein and injecting it into the bloodstream, where it delivers a high-dose of radiation to the cancer’s cells. Most patients have four doses, although some need only two. The treatment takes between four and six hours to administer, and is not suitable for all patients.
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May Leaoseve travelled to Melbourne for PRRT treatment last year. Sending patients to Melbourne for PRRT became difficult as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and travel restrictions, so a small, interim service had been operating in Auckland since September, for the 12 most urgent patients only.
NET cancer patients relieved treatment will be permanently offered in NZ
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Radiation therapy cancer treatment service to be permanent
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