A radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test uses a radioactive tracer and a special probe to
measure how much tracer the thyroid gland absorbs from the blood
. The test can show how much tracer is absorbed by the thyroid gland.
Is a thyroid uptake scan safe?
There’s
a small but safe amount of radiation contained in the radionuclide used
in any thyroid scan. Your exposure to radiation will be minimal and within the acceptable ranges for diagnostic exams. There are no known long-term complications of having a nuclear medicine procedure.
What are the long term side effects of radioactive iodine?
Longer-term complications include
recurrent sialoadenitis associated with xerostomia, mouth pain, dental caries, pulmonary fibrosis, nasolacrimal outflow obstruction, and second primary malignancies
. This article summarizes the common complications of RAI and methods to prevent and manage these complications.
What happens after radioactive iodine uptake?
Other side effects of radioactive iodine include:
Metallic taste in the mouth
: This can last for a few weeks. Nausea: This usually subsides one to two days after treatment. Swollen salivary glands: This can last for a few weeks.
What does a radioactive iodine uptake test for?
A radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test uses a radioactive tracer and a special probe to
measure how much tracer the thyroid gland absorbs from the blood
. The test can show how much tracer is absorbed by the thyroid gland.
How long 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.
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 much does a thyroid uptake 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.
How long are you radioactive after a thyroid uptake scan?
You are asked to ingest (swallow) radioactive iodine (I-123 or I-131) in liquid or capsule form. After a time (
usually 6 and 24 hours
later), you must return to have the radioactivity measured. A gamma probe is placed over the thyroid gland in the neck to measure the amount of radioactivity in the thyroid gland.
Can I eat before thyroid uptake scan?
You will then need to wait 10 to 15 minutes before imaging begins. The entire visit takes about 1 to 11⁄2 hours. If you are going to be treated with a therapeutic dose of I31 after the 24-hour uptake and scan,
do not eat any solid foods for 2 hours before this appointment
.
How do I clean my house after radioactive iodine treatment?
- Do not share cups, glasses, plates or eating utensils. Wash items promptly after using. …
- Do not share towels or washcloths.
- Flush the toilet twice and rinse the sink and tub after use.
- Wash your towels, bed linens, underwear, and any clothing stained with urine or sweat.
Do you gain weight after radioactive iodine treatment?
They undergo treated with antithyroid drugs or with medication plus radioactive iodine treatment (RAI). Following treatment for hyperthyroidism,
patients will observe a steady weight gain
despite not changes in their eating or exercise.
How bad is radioactive iodine?
As iodine-131 builds up in the thyroid gland, it emits bursts of radiation that
can damage DNA and other genetic material
. Such damage can remove the normal limits to cell growth and division. Unchecked growth of thyroid tissue is thyroid cancer.
Do you still have Graves disease after radioactive iodine treatment?
It should be noted that most people become hypothyroid after taking radioactive iodine for Graves’ disease. If this occurs, you
will have to take thyroid replacement medication for the rest of your life
.
Does radioactive iodine make you lose hair?
Radioactive iodine does not produce hair loss
. Nevertheless, hair loss can be associated with changing levels of thyroid hormone, and may be experienced by some patients with hypo or hyperthyroidism.
Can your thyroid grow back after radioactive iodine?
If you have thyroid cancer and you are treated with radioactive iodine, it may take from several weeks to many months for your body to get rid of any remaining cancer cells.
Your thyroid nodule is unlikely to grow after being treated with radioactive iodine
.
