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Thyroid ultrasound

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Thyroid ultrasound
Thyroid ultrasound

Alternative Names    Return to top

Ultrasound - thyroid; Thyroid sonogram; Thyroid echogram

Definition    Return to top

A thyroid ultrasound is an imaging method used to see the thyroid -- a gland in the neck that regulates metabolism.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

Ultrasound is a painless method that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. The test is usually done in the ultrasound or radiology department.

You will lie with your neck extended beyond its usual limit (hyperextended). The ultrasound technician will place a lubricating gel onto your neck. Next, the technician will move a wand, called a transducer, over the area.

The transducer gives off sound waves. The sound waves go through the body and bounce off the area being studied (in this case, the thyroid gland). A computer looks at the pattern that the sound waves create when bouncing back, and creates an image.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

You should feel very little discomfort with this test. The gel may be cold.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

A thyroid ultrasound is usually done when you have a growth on your thyroid gland. The exam can help tell the difference between a sac containing fluid (cyst) and abnormal tissue that may or may not be cancerous (a tumor).

Normal Results    Return to top

The thyroid is of normal size, shape, and position.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

Abnormal results may be due to:

Your doctor can use these results and the results of other tests to direct your care.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:

Risks    Return to top

There are no documented risks of ultrasound.

Update Date: 4/10/2008

Updated by: 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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