Technetium Thyroid Scan

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of your neck. It releases hormones which help in some important functions of your body including metabolism. When they get overactive or underactive, it is then that the thyroid tests are done.

This test is done either by using iodine or technetium as radioactive tracers. Accordingly, when the lightest chemical element technetium, which has unstable radioactive isotopes, is used, it is called Technetium Thyroid Scan.

The procedure of Technetium Thyroid Scan

This scan uses a specialized imaging procedure. The tracer, technetium is either swallowed or injected into the vein. It spreads into the body emitting radiation signals. A special gamma camera or scanner is used to measure the amount of tracer is absorbed from the blood by the thyroid gland from 3 different angles. The procedure may last for about 30 minutes.

This test can give detailed information regarding your thyroid gland from its size and shape to its functioning. The results will help the doctor to evaluate whether it is functioning normally or not.

Steps to be taken before the thyroid test

• Inform your doctor about your current medications and if the doctor feels any of your medicine might interfere with the test results, you may be asked to stop your dose for some time.
• Avoid foods that contain iodine for about a week.

Also, let your doctor know:

• If you are allergic to any medicine, disclose the same to your doctor.
• If you are expecting or feeding mothers.
• If you have had any allergic reaction in past due to a bee sting or by eating shellfish or any other food allergies.
• If you have carried out any other tests like CT scan with contrast in the past 4 weeks.

Post scan requirements

You can resume your normal diet and activities forthwith the thyroid scan. You shall be asked to consume more fluids to flush out the radionuclide fluids from your body through urination. To prevent the material from being exposed to others, flush twice whenever you visit the washroom for the next 48 hours.

Contact your physician on how and when to resume your medications.

There are no potential risks of this test as the exposure used is mild and minimum. However, it is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Conclusion

Depending on your results, the doctor will discuss accordingly whether you require more tests or just medication to regulate the hormone levels and avoid health complications. Your thyroid level affects the overall functioning of the body, hence it is better to get a thyroid test done as and when the need arises.

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