General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
An already prescribed thyroid scan provides images of thyroid function and can identify nodules that secrete hormones. Ultrasound describes features such as size and structure; the examinations answer different questions.
A radioactive tracer is injected into a vein, then a camera records its uptake in the organ. This is a nuclear medicine examination. Ask the prescriber which functional information is being sought in your assessment.
When arranging the appointment, report all medicines, especially thyroid hormones. Temporary adjustment may be needed for this examination; ask the doctor and service exactly what to stop, when and how to restart, without changing doses yourself.
Report possible pregnancy or breastfeeding before the examination. The tracer requires precautions suited to your situation, and the service decides what to do. Do not transfer instructions from another type of scintigraphy to your examination.
Bring the referral, medicine prescriptions and previous results, particularly thyroid blood tests and ultrasound. Confirm the total time needed for injection, waiting and imaging, as well as the service’s food instructions.
Before leaving, ask about precautions after injection and how to obtain the images and report. Then ask the prescriber what the observed uptake changes in your assessment; an image or the word “hot” does not replace medical interpretation.
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Your health review
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Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.