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Thyroid scan - Results

Alternative Names

Scan - thyroid; Radioactive iodine screening test - thyroid; RAUI; Nuclear scan - thyroid

Normal Values:

The thyroid appears the correct size, shape, and in the proper location. It appears an even gray color on the computer image.

What abnormal results mean:

A thyroid that is enlarged or pushed off to one side could indicate a tumor. Nodules will absorb more or less iodine and will appear darker or lighter on the scan (usually lighter if tumor). If part of the thyroid appears lighter, it may indicate a possible thyroid problem.

The computer will also show the percentage of iodine that has collected in your thyroid gland. If your gland collects too much or too little of the radiotracer, this can cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Other conditions under which the test may be performed:

  • Reviewed last on: 5/13/2010
  • Benjamin Taragin, MD, Department of Radiology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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