Thyroid ultrasound

Definition:

The thyroid is located in the neck and regulates metabolism. The ultrasound is a harmless method of examining the organ. The ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that are emitted and received by a transducer (a hand-held instrument), and the sound waves penetrate the body. By electronic conversion, the sound waves are arranged into the picture image seen on a screen.

Alternative Names:

Ultrasound - thyroid; Thyroid sonogram; Thyroid echogram

How the test is 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 for the test:

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 the test will feel:

There is no discomfort with this test.

Why the test is 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.

What abnormal results mean:

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:

What the risks are:

There are no documented risks of ultrasound.

Special considerations:

Not applicable.

Review Date: 2/5/2001
Reviewed By: Ann M. Johnson, M.D., Department of Radiology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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