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A nuclear medicine examination that uses the emissions of gamma rays from radioactive iodine to help determine whether a patient has thyroid problems; including hyperthyroidism, cancer, or other growths.

How the Test is Performed

You are given radioactive iodine to drink (or in pill form) and then must wait until the iodine collects in the thyroid. The first scan is usually 4 to 6 hours after the iodine has been ingested, and another scan may be taken 24-hours later. Additional or subsitute imaging may be performed using a compound containing technetium.

After the radioisotope has been absorbed by the thyroid, you lie on your back on a gantry (movable table) with your neck and chest positioned under the scanner. The scanner detects the location and intensity of the gamma rays emitted. During this part of the procedure, you must lie still to enable the scanner to get a clear image.

Next, the information is sent to a computer that displays images of the thyroid and any possible nodules that have absorbed the iodine.

How to Prepare for the Test

You must sign a consent form. Fasting overnight is a usual requirement. Consult the health care provider if you are taking any medications that may need to be regulated (such as thyroid medication and anything with iodine in it). Remove jewelry, dentures, or other metals, because they may interfere with the image.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age: