Thyroid ultrasound
Ultrasound of the Thyroid: Procedure, Types, Risks, Preparation, and More
A thyroid ultrasound is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves to produce images of the thyroid gland. This test is used to diagnose thyroid conditions and can help differentiate between a lump in the neck and cysts or tumors. It can also help determine the cause of thyroid pain or swelling.
What Is the Purpose of a Thyroid Ultrasound?
Thyroid ultrasound is used to diagnose and monitor thyroid conditions, such as goiters, nodules, thyroid cancer, and Grave’s disease. It can also help differentiate between causes of swelling and lump in the neck area.
When Is a Thyroid Ultrasound Used?
A thyroid ultrasound may be recommended if an individual has signs or symptoms suggestive of a thyroid disorder, such as a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), hoarseness, or changes in the voice. It may also be recommended if an individual is at an increased risk for thyroid cancer, such as a history of neck radiation or if certain imaging tests (e.g. CT scan) have shown results suggestive of a thyroid disorder.
How Is a Thyroid Ultrasound Performed?
A thyroid ultrasound is typically performed by a radiology technician or specialist and is a relatively quick and painless procedure. The patient will need to lie down on their back, and the head and neck area will be exposed. A gel will then be applied to the neck area and a handheld transducer will be used to produce sound waves, which will create images that can be seen on a monitor.
Risks
A thyroid ultrasound does not use radiation, so the risk of radiation exposure is not a concern. The most common risk associated with a thyroid ultrasound is mild discomfort from the gel and pressure of the transducer.
Preparation
- Tell your doctor or technician if you are on any medications, especially those that affect the thyroid gland.
- Avoid eating large meals prior to the test.
- Remove any jewelry that may interfere with the procedure.
Types of Thyroid Ultrasound
There are two types of thyroid ultrasound available:
- Transabdominal ultrasound: This is done with the patient lying on their back and a handheld transducer applied to the abdomen area. This type of ultrasound is used to view the thyroid area in greater detail.
- Transrectal ultrasound: This type of ultrasound is performed using a transducer that is inserted into the rectum of the patient. It is used to view the thyroid area in greater detail and is usually used if a lesion or tumor is found in the area.
Why Use a Thyroid Ultrasound?
A thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive, safe, and painless procedure that can provide detailed images of the thyroid area. It is most often used to diagnose and monitor thyroid conditions, including nodules, tumors, cysts, goiters, and more. A thyroid ultrasound can help differentiate between a lump in the neck and cysts or tumors, and can help determine the cause of thyroid pain or swelling.