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Radioactive iodine uptake   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Iodine uptake test; RAIU

Definition:

A test of thyroid function that measures the amount of orally ingested radioactive iodine that accumulates in the thyroid gland (see also "thyroid scan").

How the Test is Performed

RAIU is a type of nuclear test of the thyroid that measures how much radioactive iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland in a given time period. You are asked to ingest 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 probe (gamma probe) is placed over the thyroid gland in the neck to measure the amount of radioactivity in the thyroid gland. This amount of radioactivity is compared  to the original dose of radioactivity and reported as a percent of the original dose.

How to Prepare for the Test

Fast for 8 hours before the test.

Consult with the health care provider if you have a history of factors that may affect the test (see "special considerations"). The health care provider may restrict iodine and thyroid (or anti-thyroid) medications for 1 week before the test.

How the Test will Feel

There is no discomfort. You can eat beginning about 1 to 2 hours after ingesting the radioactive iodine, and you can resume a normal diet when the test is finished. For the scanning, you are asked to lie on a table while the scanner is placed over the neck. The scan takes about 30 minutes.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is performed to evaluate thyroid function, particularly when blood tests of thyroid function (for example, T3 or T4 levels) have abnormal results.

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