What is thyroid nuclear scan?

A thyroid nuclear scan is a medical imaging procedure that uses a small amount of radioactive material to create detailed images of the thyroid gland. It is used to diagnose and evaluate a variety of thyroid conditions, including:

- Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.

- Hypothyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone.

- Thyroid nodules: Lumps or growths that develop in the thyroid gland.

- Thyroid cancer: A type of cancer that starts in the thyroid gland.

During a thyroid nuclear scan, a small amount of radioactive iodine is injected into a vein in the arm. The iodine travels through the bloodstream and is absorbed by the thyroid gland. A special camera is then used to detect and record the radiation emitted by the iodine, creating images of the thyroid gland.

The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. It is a painless and non-invasive procedure, and it does not require any special preparation.

Thyroid nuclear scans are considered to be a safe and effective diagnostic tool. However, there is a small risk of side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days.

Thyroid nuclear scans are often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and ultrasound, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the thyroid gland.