Why is this procedure done?
This scan looks at the thyroid gland in the neck. It lets the doctors check the size, shape, and proper position of the gland. It shows how much iodine the gland can take in. This can help the doctors know if the gland is working properly. This test can also be done to check if thyroid cancer has spread outside the thyroid gland. � �
What will the results be?
If the result is normal, the gland will appear with the right size, shape, and location. If the result is not normal, you may see: � �
- Enlarged gland
- Smaller gland size
- Too little or too much absorption of iodine
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will do an exam and may order blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels. � �
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about: � �
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
- If you are pregnant, think you are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- If you have had recent loose stools. This may interfere with the absorption of the radioactive iodine.
Your doctor may: � �
- Ask you to stop taking certain drugs like OTC vitamins. These may include drugs with kelp, seaweed, or iodine in them. Any of these may change the results.
- Ask you to avoid eating salty foods, seafood, or foods that contain seaweed and iodine 1 to 2 weeks before the procedure.
- Tell you not to eat for 6 hours before the scan.
- Ask you to remove your dentures, jewelry, and watch.
What happens during the procedure?
Thyroid scan � � � Your doctor will give you a radioactive iodine pill a few hours before the scan. You will lie down with your head tipped back for the test. You will have your neck extended and will lay very still. A special type of camera will take pictures of your gland from 3 different angles. This procedure may take 30 to 60 minutes. � �
Thyroid uptake � � � You will be given a radioactive iodine pill a few hours before the scan. The scan will take place about 4 hours after you swallow the pill. You will sit in a chair during the scan. There will be a small probe in front of your neck. It measures the amount of iodine taken up by the gland. This procedure may only take 30 to 45 minutes. Your doctor may have you come back in 24 hours for one more test. This procedure should only take a few minutes. � �
What happens after the procedure?
You may go back to your normal activities after the procedure. � �
What care is needed at home?
The iodine leaves the body through the urine. It is important that you flush the toilet each time you pass urine. You also have to wash your hands very well. If you are breastfeeding, your doctor will let you know when you may start again. � �
What follow-up care is needed?
The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have with your thyroid. Together you can make a plan for more care. � �
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. � �
What problems could happen?
Allergic reactions to the drug given are possible. Your doctor may watch for signs of a reaction after you are given the contrast pill. � �
Where can I learn more?
Clinical Center National Institutes of Health � �
http://www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/patient_education/procdiag/thyroidupt.pdf � �
RadiologyInfo.org � �
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=thyroiduptake � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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