NM Thyroid Uptake/Scan

Overview-
To assess the anatomy and function of the thyroid.

Preparation-
Thyroid medications and recent iodinated contrast injections may interfere with the thyroid’s absorption of the tracer. Patient should be off any vitamins or medications containing iodine as well as any thyroid medications ( ex: synthroid, cytomel, PTU, procoid, tapazole) for the recommended amount of time.

Length of exam-
This is a 2 day test. The first day you will only be in the department long enough to swallow a iodine capsule. You will come back at the same time the next day for about 30 minutes.

How is the exam performed?
The first day you will swallow an iodine capsule, Do not eat shellfish, shrimp, strawberries, or true greens (mustard , kale, or collard greens) that day after you have taken the capsule. Return the following day at the same time. You will lie on a table on your back and the camera will be positioned over your neck. After acquiring 2 pictures, the technologist will give you an injection of a radioactive tracer in the vein of your arm. After letting the tracer circulate in your body for a few minutes, the technologist will take 4 more images of your neck.

Results-
Please contact your physician for the results of your test. The results will be available within a couple of days.

This page is intended for education purposes only. This should not replace medical advice from your physician. Please call your physician if you have medical questions concerning your health. For any questions about the procedure, please contact the radiology department.