A nuclear medicine thyroid scan uses a
radioactive medication (radiopharmaceutical) to take pictures or images of the thyroid gland
. The radiopharmaceutical is injected into a vein, usually in the arm, and enters the thyroid gland from the circulating blood.
What is the procedure for a thyroid nuclear scan?
On your first visit, you will swallow a
small radioactive iodine capsule
. On your second visit (four hours after taking the capsule), you will have an uptake measurement, pictures of your thyroid gland and an examination of your thyroid gland by the nuclear medicine physician.
How long does a nuclear thyroid scan take?
Actual scanning time for a thyroid scan is
30 minutes or less
. You will be given radioactive iodine (I-123 or I-131) in liquid or capsule form to swallow. The thyroid uptake will begin several hours to 24 hours later. Often, two separate uptake measurements are obtained at different times.
Is a thyroid scan painful?
You
may experience mild pain and redness at
the injection site for a short time if you receive an injection of the radionuclide. Even though the radiation exposure is minimal and short term, thyroid scans aren’t recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Can I eat or drink before a thyroid scan?
Please
be sure not to eat or drink anything 2 hours prior to your first appointment
(you will also need to refrain from eating or drinking for 2 hours following your appointment—see below for further exam preparation details). You will then return to the department at the same time on the following day for imaging.
Can I use my cell phone after radioactive iodine?
You will have to stay in your room for at least 1 to 2 hours after your treatment.
You can use your cell phone or watch TV to help pass the time
. You won’t be able to have visitors during this time. You may not have any side effects from the treatment right after you get it, but you may have side effects later.
How long does nuclear dye stay in your system?
How long does the injection stay in my system? The nuclear imaging agent is out of your system
within 60 hours
, but it is always decaying so it becomes minimal in a relatively short period of time.
Why would a doctor order a thyroid scan?
A physician may perform these imaging tests to:
determine if the gland is working properly
.
help diagnose problems with the thyroid gland
, such as an overactive thyroid gland, a condition called hyperthyroidism, cancer or other growths. assess the nature of a nodule discovered in the gland.
Is banana good for thyroid patients?
Vegetables: all vegetables — cruciferous vegetables are fine to eat in moderate amounts, especially when cooked. Fruits: all other fruits, including berries, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, etc.
How much does a nuclear thyroid scan cost?
How Much Does a Thyroid Uptake and Scan Cost? On MDsave, the cost of a Thyroid Uptake and Scan ranges
from $341 to $812
. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can save when they buy their procedure upfront through MDsave.
Is fasting required for thyroid test?
Is Fasting Required for a Thyroid Test?
Most doctors will suggest you do not fast before your thyroid function test
. Research shows that fasting, especially early in the morning, may impact TSH levels. A fasting test typically results in higher TSH levels versus one done in the afternoon.
How long does a radioactive iodine scan take?
This test takes
about 10 minutes
. It’s done 3 to 6 hours after you are given the tracer. Another scan may be done in 24 hours. After an RAIU test, you can do your regular activities.
Can I eat before a nuclear scan?
If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.
Do not eat or drink anything four hours before the exam
.
How do you feel after taking radioactive iodine?
Some people may have a feeling of tightness or swelling in their neck for a few days after treatment. This is more common if you still had a large part of your thyroid gland when you have radioactive iodine treatment. Some people also feel flushed.
How long do you have to be isolated after radioactive iodine?
Depending on state regulations, patients may have to stay isolated in the hospital for
about 24 hours
to avoid exposing other people to radiation, especially if there are young children living in the same home.
Why do you have to be isolated after radioactive iodine?
You are also required to self isolate for 7 days after your radioiodine treatment in
order to minimise the risk of contracting COVID-19
whilst there is still a large amount of radioactivity in your body. A small proportion of people with COVID-19 may become very unwell and require admission to hospital.
