Exploring the Flare Phenomenon in Patients with Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Enzalutamide-Induced PSMA Upregulation Observed on PSMA PET.

Androgen receptor-targeting agents, particularly enzalutamide, show promise in enhancing prostate cancer diagnostic and therapeutic strategies by modulating prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA).

Methods

A retrospective clinical cohort study investigated 9 men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer on enzalutamide. PSMA PET/CT scans were obtained before and after enzalutamide initiation to assess PSMA expression changes. Lesions and organs at risk were evaluated visually and semiquantitatively. The flare phenomenon was characterized by a significant increase (≥20%) in the SUVmax of existing lesions or the appearance of new PSMA-positive lesions.

Results

Exposure to enzalutamide led to a significant PSMA expression increase in 56% of assessed lesions (n = 42), with new lesions detected in 1 patient (11%). PSMA expression in organs at risk remained largely unaffected, indicating a tumor-specific response.

Conclusion

Enzalutamide induces PSMA upregulation in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, potentially enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Further exploration of the flare phenomenon's clinical implications is warranted.