The thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating the body's
metabolism, energy levels, and hormonal balance. When issues related to the
thyroid are suspected, a thyroid scan becomes an essential diagnostic tool to
help evaluate the gland's structure and function. This non-invasive imaging
technique is part of nuclear medicine and is frequently used to detect
abnormalities that cannot be identified through blood tests or physical
examination alone.
In this article, we’ll explain what a thyroid scan is, how it works,
what it detects, and why it’s a critical procedure in diagnosing
thyroid-related conditions.
Understanding the
Thyroid Gland
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of
the neck. It produces hormones like T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine),
which control the body’s metabolism. When the thyroid doesn’t function
properly, it can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid),
hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), thyroid nodules, or even thyroid cancer.
What Is a Thyroid
Scan?
A thyroid scan is a specialized imaging test that shows the size, shape,
position, and function of the thyroid gland. It is usually conducted using a
small amount of radioactive material (tracer), commonly iodine-123 or
technetium-99m, which is either swallowed or injected into the bloodstream. The
tracer collects in the thyroid tissue, and a gamma camera captures images that
display how well the gland is working.
Unlike regular imaging methods like ultrasound or CT scans, a thyroid
scan reveals both structural and functional information, which makes it
valuable for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Why Is a Thyroid Scan
Done?
There are several medical reasons why a doctor may recommend a thyroid
scan:
1. To Evaluate Thyroid
Nodules
Thyroid nodules are small lumps or growths that may form within the
gland. A scan helps determine whether the nodules are “hot” (producing excess hormones)
or “cold” (not producing hormones), which can be useful in assessing the risk
of malignancy.
2. To Diagnose
Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism
In cases of unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings, a
thyroid scan helps measure the gland’s hormone activity and confirms conditions
like Graves’ disease or thyroiditis.
3. To Investigate
Goiter
When the thyroid becomes enlarged (goiter), a scan can detect if the
enlargement is due to uniform tissue growth, nodules, or inflammation.
4. To Detect Thyroid
Cancer or Recurrence
After thyroid cancer treatment, a scan can check for any remaining or
returning cancerous tissue. It can also monitor the effectiveness of
radioactive iodine therapy.
5. To Guide Surgery or
Treatment
In cases where surgical removal of the thyroid or nodules is considered,
the scan provides essential mapping for accurate and safe intervention.
The Thyroid Scan
Procedure: What to Expect
- Preparation: You may be asked to avoid iodine-containing foods
or medications before the test.
- Tracer Administration: The tracer is
given orally or by injection, depending on the test type.
- Imaging: After the tracer accumulates in the thyroid
(usually 20 minutes to several hours later), the gamma camera takes images.
- Duration: The entire process may take 1 to 2 hours, with
no significant discomfort.
Safety and Side
Effects
Thyroid scans are generally safe, with minimal exposure to radiation.
The tracer dose is very low and does not cause allergic reactions in most
patients. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should inform their doctor
beforehand, as the test may not be recommended in those situations.
How It Differs from a
Parathyroid Scan
While the thyroid scan evaluates the thyroid gland’s structure and
function, a parathyroid scan in Rohtak
focuses on the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the blood.
Though both scans use similar nuclear imaging techniques, they serve distinct
diagnostic purposes and are often recommended for different symptoms and
conditions.
Conclusion
A thyroid scan is a vital diagnostic tool that helps uncover underlying
thyroid conditions with clarity and precision. It plays a key role in
identifying functional issues, guiding treatment, and improving outcomes for
patients with thyroid-related health concerns. At RNM Center, we provide state-of-the-art nuclear medicine imaging,
including advanced thyroid scan in Rohtak,
delivered with expert care and patient comfort in mind.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like unexplained fatigue, weight
changes, or neck swelling, talk to your doctor about whether a thyroid scan is
right for you.
Call us: +919915004407
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