Health Encyclopedia

Thyroid scan

Definition

A thyroid scan is a nuclear medicine examination that uses radioactive iodine to check for hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid gland growths.

Alternative Names

Scan - thyroid; Radioactive iodine screening test - thyroid; RAUI; Nuclear scan - thyroid

How the test is performed

You will be given a pill that contains radioactive iodine, and then you will wait as the iodine collects in the thyroid. The first scan is usually 4 - 6 hours after the iodine pill is taken. Another scan may be taken 24 hours later. Additional or alternative scans may be done using a compound containing technetium.

After the radioactive iodine has been absorbed by the thyroid, you will lie on your back on a movable table with your neck and chest positioned under the scanner. The scanner detects the location and intensity of the rays given off by the radioactive material. During this part of the procedure, you must lie still to let the scanner get a clear image. A computer displays images of the thyroid.

How to prepare for the test

You must sign a consent form. You may be told not to eat after midnight the night before the exam. Consult the health care provider if you are taking any medications that may need to be regulated, such as thyroid medication and anything with iodine in it. Remove jewelry, dentures, or other metals, because they may interfere with the image.

How the test will feel

Some patients find remaining still during the test uncomfortable.

Why the test is performed

This test is done if your doctor suspects you may have thyroid cancer or thyroid nodules .

Normal Values

The thyroid appears the correct size, shape, and in the proper location. It appears a even gray color on the computer image.

What abnormal results mean

If the thyroid is enlarged or pushed off to one side, this could indicate a tumor. Nodules will absorb more or less iodine and will appear darker or lighter on the scan (usually lighter if tumor). If part of the thyroid appears lighter, it may indicate there is possible thyroid dysfunction.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

What the risks are

All radiation has possible side effects. There is a very small amount of radiation in the radioisotope ingested during this test, but women who are nursing or pregnant should discuss the risks to the fetus or infant with their health care providers before taking this test.

The concerns regarding radiation side effects are taken into consideration when the test is ordered, but the benefits of taking the test usually far outweigh the risks.

Special considerations

Thyroid scans using radionuclides are used with other studies, such as blood tests and ultrasound, to evaluate the thyroid. Your doctor may send you for more than one type of test.

Review Date:7/17/2007
Reviewed By:Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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