A Thyroid Scan is a nuclear medicine imaging test that evaluates the structure and function of your thyroid gland, located in the neck. It helps detect thyroid nodules, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), inflammation, and even thyroid cancer.
Unlike blood tests that only check hormone levels, a thyroid scan gives a real-time image of how your thyroid is working and whether any part of it is functioning abnormally.
At Dr. Anand’s Imaging & Neurological Research Centre, we perform thyroid scans using a high-resolution Gamma Camera with advanced safety protocols and fast imaging technology.
🧪 Evaluate Thyroid Function
Detects hyperactive (“hot”) or inactive (“cold”) nodules
Helps diagnose Graves’ disease or thyroiditis
🔍 Identify Thyroid Nodules
Distinguishes between benign and potentially cancerous nodules
Assists in biopsy planning
⚖️ Pre/Post-Treatment Monitoring
Used before or after radioactive iodine therapy
Monitors response to thyroid cancer treatment
👩 For Women & Children
Helpful in evaluating menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, and childhood thyroid disorders
1. 💊 Radioactive Tracer
You’re given a small dose of radioactive iodine (I-123 or technetium) either orally or via injection. This tracer is absorbed naturally by your thyroid.
2. ⏳ Absorption Period
You wait for a short duration (typically 15–30 minutes or up to 4 hours depending on tracer used) for the iodine to localize in your thyroid.
3. 📷 Imaging
You lie on a table while a gamma camera captures images of your thyroid gland from multiple angles.
4. 🖥️ Report
The scan shows how each part of the thyroid absorbs iodine, helping doctors identify problems.
🕒 Scan time: 15-30 minutes
✅ No pain, no discomfort
| Condition | Use |
|---|---|
| Thyroid Nodule | Assess if the nodule is active or cancerous |
| Hyperthyroidism | Detect overactive gland or Graves’ disease |
| Thyroiditis | Identify inflammation or infection |
| Goiter | Check enlargement and distribution |
| Thyroid Cancer | Diagnose, monitor post-surgery or post-radioiodine |
| Congenital Thyroid Issues | Evaluate thyroid in newborns and children |
🧴 Avoid iodine-rich foods (seafood, salt, kelp) for 3–5 days
💊 Stop thyroid medications (if advised) temporarily
🚫 No contrast scans, thyroid tests, or iodine procedures 1–2 weeks before the scan
👩⚕️ Inform us if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
💧 Drink water after the test to help flush the tracer
✅ The radioactive iodine is safe, used in very small amounts
✅ You may resume your routine after the scan
🅰️ No. It’s used in minimal doses and is quickly excreted from the body.
🅰️ Both options exist. Most scans use either a small injection or oral capsule.
🅰️ Scan time is 15–30 minutes, depending on the type of tracer.
🅰️ You will typically get your report within 24 hours.
🅰️ Not at all. You can go home or to work right after the scan.
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