Thyroid ultrasound

For a complete list of hospital classes and events, click here to connect to HealthConnection Online

Medical Encyclopedia

Encyclopedia -> Test -> T -> Thyroid ultrasound

Thyroid ultrasound

Alternate Names: Ultrasound - thyroid; Thyroid sonogram; Thyroid echogram

How Performed: The test is usually done in the ultrasound or radiology department. You will be lying down with your neck hyperextended (extending the neck beyond its usual limit). The lubricant gel is placed on your neck, and the transducer is passed over the area. Pictures are taken of the images.

How To Prepare:

Adults:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child’s age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child’s age:

infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How It Feels: There is no discomfort with this test.

Risks: There are no documented risks of ultrasound.

Why Performed: The ultrasound of the thyroid is done to differentiate between a cyst (a sac containing fluid) and a tumor (abnormal tissue growth which may or may not be cancerous).

Normal Values: The thyroid is of normal size, shape, and position.

Abnormal Results:

Abnormal results may find cysts, tumors, goiter (an enlargement of the thyroid gland), and thyroid nodules.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

Cost:

Special Considerations: Not applicable.

Disclaimer: The text presented on these pages is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Copyright © 1999-2001 Medical Network Inc. All rights reserved. No part of the contents of this web site may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the written permission of the publisher. "HealthAtoZ.com" should be prominently displayed on any material reproduced with the publisher's consent.